The NHL and Chicago sports teams issue statements on sudden passing of Blackhawks boss at age 70.
The Chicago Blackhawks announced the sudden death of team chairman W. Rockwell "Rocky" Wirtz at age 70 on Tuesday, July 25. No cause of death was provided.
Wirtz inherited the ownership of the NHL Original Six franchise in 2007 following the death of his father, Bill Wirtz, and presided over the team's renaissance that culminated in Stanley Cup wins in 2010, 2013 and 2015. The run of three championships in six years was the most successful ever for the Blackhawks, who have won the Cup six times since entering the NHL in 1926.
The NHL and other Chicago sports team owners reacted quickly.
NHL and Commissioner Gary Bettman
The league and commissioner Gary Bettman issued the following statement:
“The National Hockey League family is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of W. Rockwell ‘Rocky’ Wirtz.
“Devoted to family and the Chicago Blackhawks, Rocky was a native son of Chicago and an accomplished businessman. 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 connecting 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.”
Chicago Bulls and White Sox Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf
Reinsdorf and the Wirtz family built and co-own the United Center in a partnership.
“This is just shocking news, and I am personally devastated. Rocky truly was a great man. We were far more than partners at the United Center. We were very close; he was a dear friend and our trust, our bond, was unbreakable. We never had a disagreement or argument during all of our many years together.
“Everyone liked Rocky. He was smart, passionate, generous, personable and friendly. He cared deeply about the Blackhawks, the people who worked for the team and at the United Center, Blackhawks fans and the city of Chicago. He was so very proud of the Stanley Cup Championships and what those trophies meant to the organization, the city and the fans.
“He was deservedly proud, as well, when it came to his countless civic and charitable endeavors and the positive impact they made on so many. This is a loss for us all. My condolences go out to Marilyn, his children and grandchildren, and the entire Wirtz family.
“His passing came far too soon as he had so very much to live for.”
Chicago Cubs Executive Chairman Tom Ricketts
“On behalf of the Chicago Cubs, our thoughts and prayers are with the Wirtz family during this difficult time.
"After taking over as owner of the Blackhawks in 2007, Rocky turned the organization into a premier franchise, winning three Stanley Cups and creating wonderful memories for hockey fans both in Chicago and all over the world.
"He was also an integral part of NBC Sports Chicago and proved to be a great partner in helping to bring Chicago sports fans coverage of the Cubs, as well as the Blackhawks, White Sox and Bulls. Rocky was a remarkable visionary and will be remembered for making a profound impact in the Chicago sports community. On a personal level, I will always remember Rocky as a friend.”
According to Forbes, the Wirtz Family's net worth might be as high as $4.4 billion. Reinsdorf's net worth was $2.2 billion and the Ricketts Family's net worth was $4.5 billion.