May in Evergreen Hollow was always bittersweet: the ice melting for the season, the rink lights dimming earlier each night, and the promise of summer just around the corner. But this May carried a weight none of the Kanes had fully prepared for.

It was Lily’s senior day—the final home game of her college career at Denver.

The Pioneers were hosting their rivals in the conference semifinal, winner advancing to the championship weekend. The arena was packed, crimson and gold ...