As the "Miracle on Ice" happened in 1980, a different kind of miracle was happening in Minnesota.

North Stars enforcer Bill Butters, whose play on the ice earned him the nickname "despicable," was experiencing something he never thought he would – and it would transform his life forever.

A White Bear Lake Native, Bill Butters lived a hockey life through and through – playing for coach Herb Brooks at the University of Minnesota before embarking on a pro career throughout most of the 1970s with the Minnesota Fighting Saints and the Minnesota North Stars.

Butters was an enforcer – and fighting characterized his game. Off the ice, life was tumultuous.

"I'm a hockey guy who was the worst of the worst. The most sinful, despicable. Whatever adjective you want to put in front of my name, I

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