7 Shocking Facts About Valeri Bure: The Russian Hockey Star Who Stole Candace Cameron Bure's Heart

The question of "who is Candace Cameron Bure's husband" leads to the intriguing life story of Valeri Bure, a Russian-American former professional ice hockey player whose journey from Moscow to the National Hockey League (NHL) and eventually to the vineyards of Napa Valley is as compelling as his wife’s acting career. As of December 2025, the couple has been married for nearly three decades, a remarkable feat in Hollywood, a union that continues to be a central topic of discussion due to their candidness about the ups and downs of their long-lasting relationship. The couple, who first met in 1994 and married in 1996, has consistently shared the foundations of their enduring love, often highlighting their Christian faith and commitment to one another despite facing what Candace Cameron Bure has openly described as periods of "deep brokenness" and significant struggles in their marriage. Their story offers a rare, honest look into the reality of a celebrity marriage, blending the worlds of professional sports, acting, and entrepreneurship.

Valeri Bure: A Quick Biography and Profile

Valeri Vladimirovich Bure, often known simply as "Val," transitioned from a celebrated athlete to a successful businessman after his retirement from professional hockey. He is the younger brother of fellow NHL star Pavel Bure, and together they were one of the most famous sibling duos in the sport.

• Full Name: Valeri Vladimirovich Bure
• Date of Birth: June 13, 1974
• Age (as of December 2025): 51 years old
• Birthplace: Moscow, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union (now Russia)
• Nationality: Russian-American
• Spouse: Candace Cameron Bure (m. 1996)
• Children: Natasha Bure, Lev Bure, and Maksim Bure
• Brother: Pavel Bure (The "Russian Rocket")
• Primary Career: Professional Ice Hockey Player (Right Winger)
• NHL Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars
• Post-Hockey Career: Vintner and Co-Owner of Bure Family Wines in Napa Valley
• Introduction: Met Candace through her Full House co-star, Dave Coulier, at a charity hockey game.

From Moscow to the NHL: Valeri Bure's Pro Hockey Career

Valeri Bure's path to the NHL was an international one, starting in his native Moscow before moving to North America. His career in professional hockey established him as a talented and formidable right winger, playing alongside his older brother, Pavel Bure, who was already a superstar in the league.

A Decade in the National Hockey League

Bure was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the second round, 33rd overall, of the 1992 NHL Entry Draft. He would go on to play for ten seasons in the National Hockey League, a testament to his skill and dedication.

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His NHL journey included stints with several prominent teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, the Calgary Flames, the Florida Panthers, the St. Louis Blues, and the Dallas Stars.

During his time with the Calgary Flames, Bure had his most productive seasons, including a 1999-2000 season where he scored 27 goals and recorded 68 points, a career high. He was known for his speed and scoring ability, earning him a place among the league's respected players.

The physical toll of professional hockey eventually led to his retirement. Bure's career was cut short due to hip injuries, officially retiring from the sport in 2005. This pivotal life change, however, opened the door to his next successful venture, proving his entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond the rink.

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Bure Family Wines and Life After Hockey

After hanging up his skates, Valeri Bure traded the cold arenas of the NHL for the sun-drenched vineyards of Napa Valley, California. This transition was not a whim but a pursuit of a long-held passion for winemaking, a move that showcased his business acumen and desire for a new challenge.

A Passion Project Becomes a Commercial Venture

Bure's interest in wine was sparked during a trip to Napa Valley, where he met the winemaker at Chateau Boswell. This encounter inspired him to turn his passion into a commercial reality.

Valeri and Candace Cameron Bure co-founded Bure Family Wines, a small, family-operated vineyard. The venture is known for producing high-quality, handcrafted wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. This family business allows Valeri to apply the same discipline and focus he used in his sports career to the intricate process of viticulture.

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The shift from a physically demanding, high-profile sports career to the meticulous world of winemaking demonstrates a different side of the former athlete—a quieter, more focused dedication to craft and quality. This entrepreneurial spirit has been a key component of his success outside the world of sports.

Candid Marriage Revelations: The Secret to 28 Years

In the face of constant media scrutiny, Candace Cameron Bure and Valeri Bure have been remarkably open about the reality of their long marriage, which celebrated its 28th anniversary in 2024. Their relationship is often cited as a "power couple" example, but they are quick to dispel the myth of a perfect union.

Overcoming 'Deep Brokenness' and Struggles

In recent years, the Full House and Hallmark star has been candid about experiencing "deep brokenness" within their marriage. She has openly discussed the rough patches and challenges that come with nearly three decades together, emphasizing that their relationship required significant work and commitment to heal.

The couple has consistently credited their strong Christian faith as the foundation that helped them navigate these difficult seasons. Candace has spoken about how this shared belief provided the framework for forgiveness, communication, and ultimately, reconciliation.

A particularly unique and touching revelation came in 2024 and 2025 updates, where Candace shared a story about how a "45-minute sermon" from one of their sons—likely Lev Bure, who has also been outspoken about his faith—helped to save their marriage during a particularly challenging time. This anecdote underscores the profound impact their children have had on their lives and their commitment to family values.

The Bure Family Legacy: Natasha, Lev, and Maksim

The couple shares three grown children: Natasha Bure, who is a singer and actress; Lev Bure, who has married and is starting his own family; and Maksim Bure.

The children's success and personal lives often make headlines, further cementing the Bure family as a prominent entity in both the entertainment and faith-based media spheres. Their tight-knit family unit is a constant presence on Candace Cameron Bure's social media, showcasing a life focused on faith, family, and shared entrepreneurial ventures like the Bure Family Wines.

In November 2024, Candace got candid about the importance of date nights and making time for each other, even after decades of marriage, highlighting the continuous effort required to keep the spark alive.

Valeri Bure is more than just Candace Cameron Bure's husband; he is a former Olympic athlete, a successful entrepreneur, and a committed family man whose life story is a fascinating blend of sports glory and quiet, determined business success in the world of fine wine. His enduring marriage to the beloved actress, marked by candor and faith, continues to inspire and resonate with fans around the world.