(670 The Score) Rocky Wirtz, owner and chairman of the Chicago Blackhawks, died Tuesday at the age of 70.
Wirtz passed away at NorthShore Evanston Hospital surrounded by members of his family after battling a brief illness, the team said in a statement.
"Our hearts are very heavy today," said Danny Wirtz, Rocky's son and the Blackhawks' CEO, in a statement. "Our dad was a passionate businessman committed to making Chicago a great place to lice, work and visit, but his true love was for his family and close friends. He was a loving father, a devoted husband to Marilyn, a brother, a nephew, an uncle and a doting grandfather to his six remarkable grandchildren. His passing leaves a huge hole in the hearts of many and we will miss him terribly."
Wirtz was owner and chairman of the Blackhawks since the passing of his father, Bill, in 2007. He oversaw the franchise winning three Stanley Cup championships during his tenure in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
Wirtz also served as co-chairman of Breakthru Beverage Group, the state's oldest alcohol distributor and a family-led business.
"Devoted to the family and the Chicago Blackhawks, Rocky was a native son of Chicago and an accomplished businessman," NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. "Rocky took over control of the Blackhawks in 2007 and almost immediately restored the passion and following of this storied, Original Six franchise.
"Rocky's focus on connectiong with the Club's fans and improving the team's performance on the ice rekindled Chicago fans' love affair with their hockey team and built a modern dynasty -- the Blackhawks won Stanley Cups in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
"On a personal level, Rocky was a dear friend whose counsel I consistently sought. He was a highly respected member of the Executive Committee of the League's Board of Governors whose wisdom and camaraderie were valued by his fellow owners.
"The NHL sends its sincere condolences to Rocky's wife, Marilyn, his children, Danny, Kendall and Hillary; Marilyn's daughter, Elizabeth; and their six grandchildren. he will be missed terribly."
Wirtz's time leading the Blackhawks brought significant organizational growth for the franchise in addition to the on-ice success. However, the Blackhawks in 2021 faced a lawsuit filed by former player Kyle Beach for claims the team covered up sexual abuse by a former coach. The Blackhawks and Beach reached a settlement in December of 2021.
Wirtz has not made a public appearance on behalf of the Blackhawks since June of 2022, when the team hired Luke Richardson as head coach.
The Blackhawks shared the news of Wirtz's passing on Tuesday night.
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