The Untold Story Of Candace Cameron Bure’s Husband: 7 Shocking Secrets Behind Valeri Bure’s Post-NHL Life And Decades-Long Marriage

For nearly three decades, Candace Cameron Bure, the beloved star of *Full House* and Great American Family, has been married to former NHL star Valeri Bure, a relationship that has become a rare Hollywood success story. As of December 2025, their enduring partnership continues to thrive, but it has been far from perfect, featuring dramatic ups and downs that have only recently been revealed to the public. This article dives into the latest, most current details about Valeri Bure, his surprising post-hockey career, and the candid truth about how their decades-long marriage survived a "rough season" with an unexpected savior.

The couple, who first met in 1994, has built a life centered on faith, family, and a surprising venture into the world of fine wine. While Valeri Bure is known for his speed on the ice, his life today is focused on a different kind of intensity: the intricate business of winemaking in California’s Napa Valley. Here is the definitive, up-to-date profile of the man behind one of Hollywood's most enduring Christian actresses.

Valeri Bure: Complete Biography and Professional Profile

Valeri Vladimirovich Bure is a Russian-American former professional ice hockey player who spent a decade in the National Hockey League (NHL) before transitioning into a successful wine entrepreneur.

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• Full Name: Valeri Vladimirovich Bure
• Nickname: The Russian Pocket Rocket
• Date of Birth: June 13, 1974
• Place of Birth: Moscow, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union
• Nationality: Russian-American
• Spouse: Candace Cameron Bure (m. June 22, 1996)
• Children: Natasha Bure (b. 1998), Lev Bure (b. 2000), Maksim Bure (b. 2002)
• NHL Career: 10 seasons (1994–2004)
• NHL Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars
• Olympic Medals: Silver (1998), Bronze (2002) for Russia
• Post-NHL Career: Co-Founder and Vintner at Bure Family Wines

How A Full House Star and An NHL Player Built a Dynasty

The foundation of Candace and Valeri’s relationship is a classic Hollywood anecdote, involving a *Full House* co-star and a charity event. Their meeting story is a testament to the power of a good wingman.

The Surprising Role of Dave Coulier (Joey Gladstone)

In 1994, a 19-year-old Candace Cameron attended a charity hockey game to cheer on her *Full House* castmates, Bob Saget and Dave Coulier. It was Coulier, who played Joey Gladstone, who introduced Candace to Valeri Bure, a young Russian hockey player who was quickly making a name for himself in the NHL. Candace instantly felt a connection, and the two began dating shortly after.

Valeri proposed just a year later, and they were married in 1996. Their whirlwind romance quickly settled into a solid, faith-based marriage, which has since produced three children: Natasha, Lev, and Maksim.

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The Transition from Rink to Vineyard: Bure Family Wines

After Valeri’s successful 10-season NHL career ended in 2005 due to a knee injury, the couple made a surprising pivot. Instead of pursuing coaching or sports commentary, Valeri and Candace moved into the world of boutique winemaking.

Valeri, who had developed a passion for wine during his hockey travels, founded Bure Family Wines in Napa Valley, California. He transitioned from an elite athlete to a dedicated vintner, overseeing the entire winemaking process. The winery, which produces high-end Cabernet Sauvignon and other varietals, is a true family business, with their son Lev Bure now working for the company.

This post-NHL venture is Valeri’s primary focus today, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to a craft that demands patience and precision, much like his former sport.

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The Secret to Their Longevity: Overcoming a "Rough Season"

While the Bures are often celebrated as a model Christian couple, Candace has been candid in recent years about the significant challenges they have faced, making their longevity even more meaningful. Their marriage has not been immune to the pressures of Hollywood, career changes, and raising a family.

The 2020 Crisis: When Their Marriage Was "Going South Quickly"

In a surprising revelation, Candace shared on her podcast that their relationship hit a particularly difficult patch around 2020, admitting that their marriage was "going south quickly." The stress of their busy lives and the constant spotlight created a deep strain. This period required a conscious effort to "rebuild" their relationship from the ground up.

Candace has consistently emphasized that their commitment to each other, their faith, and a willingness to seek help were crucial in navigating this "rough season."

The Unexpected Savior: Their Son's Sermon

The turning point in their marriage came from an unexpected source: their son, Lev Bure. Candace shared that a sermon given by Lev provided a profound moment of clarity and guidance for both her and Valeri. The message helped them re-center their focus, reminding them of the core values and commitment that had initially brought them together. This experience highlights the deep, supportive bond within the Bure family, where even the children play a role in the parents' spiritual and emotional health.

The Bure Family Today: Children and New Beginnings

The Bure family remains a key entity in Candace and Valeri’s public and private lives. All three children are grown and pursuing their own paths.

• Natasha Bure: The eldest, Natasha, has followed in her mother’s footsteps, pursuing a career in acting and music.
• Lev Bure: Lev recently made headlines with his marriage in September 2025, a joyous occasion for the entire family. He is also actively involved in the Bure Family Wines business.
• Maksim Bure: The youngest, Maksim, continues to be a source of pride for his parents.

Valeri and Candace often share glimpses of their life together on social media, from romantic trips to Napa Valley to family celebrations, demonstrating a relationship that has become stronger through shared challenges and renewed commitment. The former hockey star and the Hallmark/Great American Family actress prove that with dedication and faith, a Hollywood marriage can indeed last for decades.