Updated: March 23, 2026
In the tight-knit world of Minnesota hockey, Jessi Pierce shone as a vibrant journalist whose passion lit up every story. Tragically, on March 21, 2026, Jessi and her three young children lost their lives in a devastating house fire in White Bear Lake. Her husband, Mike Hinrichs, survived because he was away on a work trip. Their story of love, family joy, and sudden loss has touched fans, colleagues, and strangers alike.
If you’ve searched for “Jessi Pierce husband Mike,” you’re not alone—many want to understand the man who stood beside this beloved NHL reporter. Here’s a heartfelt look at Mike Hinrichs, their beautiful marriage, and the family they cherished.
Table of Contents
Who Is Mike Hinrichs? Career, Background, and Life Beside Jessi
Mike Hinrichs has built a solid professional path far from the spotlight that followed his wife. He currently serves as a business development manager at Assa Abloy Group, a role he stepped into after years of experience in sales and management.
Before that, Mike graduated from Century College in 2007 and spent more than a decade at Sears, Roebuck and Co., rising from sales representative to assistant manager in home improvement. He later worked as a territory manager at Sherwin-Williams and held a corporate asset protection role at Opitz & Associates.
Quiet and steady, Mike supported Jessi’s busy career covering the Minnesota Wild for NHL.com and co-hosting the Bardown Beauties podcast. Friends describe him as the reliable anchor who made their family life possible while Jessi chased deadlines and game-day stories.
Inside Jessi Pierce and Mike Hinrichs’ Heartwarming Marriage
Jessi and Mike shared a marriage filled with everyday sweetness and genuine gratitude. She often posted candid glimpses of their life together, showing a partnership built on humor, support, and small acts of love.
Here are a few touching moments that resurfaced after the tragedy:
- In a 2022 Thanksgiving post, Jessi wrote, “Today I’m grateful for a husband that will drive to Wisconsin where liquor stores are open because we forgot earlier this week 🤦🏼♀️ Happy thanksgiving, ladies and gents!”
- Another time, she laughed about Mike overhearing her watching the hockey movie Miracle during one of his conference calls.
- On Mother’s Day in 2021, Jessi shared her wish for a lazy day in bed with Candy Crush and documentaries—highlighting how Mike always rolled with her playful side.
These posts painted a picture of a couple who truly enjoyed each other’s company amid busy schedules. Mike’s steady presence gave Jessi the space to thrive in her journalism career while building a home full of laughter.
Their Joyful Family Life with Kids Hudson, Cayden, and Avery
Together, Jessi and Mike raised three wonderful children—Hudson, Cayden, and Avery—who filled their White Bear Lake home with energy and adventure. The family also included a beloved dog that was part of every memory.
Jessi frequently shared snapshots of their life: ice cream runs, hockey games, and simple weekends that made ordinary days special. Just one day before the fire, she posted photos of an outing with the kids to their favorite ice cream stand, calling it “Bag(s) secured.” Those final images now feel even more precious.
The kids inherited Jessi’s zest for life, and Mike was the loving dad who helped create countless joyful moments. Colleagues often noted how fiercely Jessi loved being a mom, balancing late-night reporting with bedtime stories.
The Tragic House Fire, Community Tributes, and Support for Mike
Early on March 21, 2026, a fire broke out at their Richard Avenue home in White Bear Lake. Firefighters arrived to find the house engulfed; sadly, Jessi, the three children, and their dog did not survive. The cause remains under investigation by the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Mike, away on business, learned the unimaginable news upon returning. The hockey community quickly rallied:
- The Minnesota Wild and NHL issued heartfelt statements praising Jessi’s kindness and passion.
- Colleague Michael Russo of The Athletic called her “the most vibrant person” who brightened every room and was “EVERYBODY’s friend.”
- Podcast co-host Kirsten Krull remembered her as “the best mom” who loved her family fiercely.
A GoFundMe launched by family friend Diana Johnson-Salvador has already raised more than $57,000 (of an $80,000 goal) to cover funeral costs and help Mike during this unimaginable time.
Quick Facts Table: Jessi Pierce and Mike Hinrichs Family
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Husband’s Name | Mike Hinrichs |
| Wife (Professional) | Jessi Pierce (Hinrichs) |
| Children | Hudson, Cayden, Avery |
| Jessi’s Career | NHL.com reporter, Minnesota Wild correspondent, Bardown Beauties podcast co-host |
| Mike’s Career | Business Development Manager, Assa Abloy Group |
| Residence | White Bear Lake, Minnesota |
| Tragedy Date | March 21, 2026 |
| GoFundMe Raised (as of March 23) | Over $57,000 |
| Family Pet | Beloved dog (also passed) |
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy of Love and Strength
Jessi Pierce’s husband Mike Hinrichs now faces a future no one should ever endure, yet the love they built together—and the tributes pouring in—show how deeply their story touched lives. Jessi’s bubbly spirit, her gratitude for Mike, and the joyful family they created will live on in every hockey story shared and every memory cherished.
To Mike, the extended family, and everyone mourning: our hearts are with you. Hug your loved ones a little tighter today. Life is fragile, but the bonds we form—like the one Jessi and Mike shared—remind us what truly matters.
If this story moved you, consider supporting the GoFundMe or simply spreading kindness in Jessi’s memory. Rest in peace, Jessi, Hudson, Cayden, and Avery.