The Pittsburgh Penguins are mourning the loss of franchise founder Jack McGregor.
McGregor helped turn Pittsburgh into a big-league hockey city.
A Kittanning native, McGregor attended the University of Pittsburgh, served in the Marine Corps, and represented Allegheny County in the state Senate.
In 1966, the NHL awarded a franchise to McGregor and a group of investors, including Art Rooney.
McGregor became the Penguins’ first president and CEO, helping lay the foundation for the team before the group sold the franchise four years later.
McGregor dropped the ceremonial first puck at the team’s inaugural game in 1967 and later said the excitement of that night was unforgettable.
The Penguins say his vision and leadership helped lay the foundation for the franchise we know today.
He was 91.