Chicago Blackhawks owner Rockwell “Rocky” Wirtz died suddenly Tuesday at the age of 70.
Wirtz became owner and president of the Blackhawks in 2007. During his reign, the Illinois team won the Stanley Cup three times, in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
“We have heavy hearts today,” his son Danny Wirtz said in a statement. Our father was a passionate businessman dedicated to making Chicago a great place to live, work and visit. But his true loves were his family and close friends. »
“Rocky” Wirtz was two years old when his grandfather, Arthur Wirtz, bought the Blackhawks in 1954. “Rocky” took over when his father William died in 2007.
William Wirtz was nicknamed “Dollar Bill” because of his reluctance to spend on getting the best players in the sport. The team didn’t enjoy much success in front of small crowds in its early years at the United Center, only making the playoffs once between 1998 and 2008.
Everything changed when “Rocky” became president. He helped restore the relationship between the team and its former stars. He brought the team back to local television and fans returned to the United Center.
“The National Hockey League family is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of ‘Rocky’ Wirtz,” the NHL said. Devoted to his family and the Chicago Blackhawks, Rocky was originally from Chicago. He took control of the Blackhawks in 2007 and almost immediately restored fan passion and interest in this legendary organization. »
Wirtz is survived by his wife Marilyn, his children Danny, Kendall and Hillary, his step-daughter Elizabeth and six grandchildren.