Formal ceremony, open to the public, to take place at the United Center on Wednesday, Aug. 9.

The Wirtz Family and the Chicago Blackhawks announced plans for a public event to "honor the legacy" of late Chairman W. Rockwell “Rocky” Wirtz on Wednesday, Aug. 9 at the United Center. Wirtz, a longtime resident of Winnetka, Illinois, died suddenly after a short illness on July 25 at age 70.

Wirtz took over as owner of the Blackhawks in 2007 following the death of his father, Bill. Rocky Wirtz presided over the most successful run in the team's 97-year history as Chicago won three Stanley Cups — half its total of six championships — in a six year span (2010, 2013 and 2015).

Rocky led the third generation of Blackhawks ownership by the Wirtz Family. His grandfather, Arthur, bought full control of the team in 1954 for $1 million. 

It's expected that Rocky' son, Danny, will become chairman of the club that was valued at $1.5 billion in 2022 by Forbes. Danny, 46, has been CEO of the Blackhawks since 2020 and increasingly visible as its day-to-day top executive.

The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. inside the United Center, with first-come, first-served seating. Following the formal program, the arena will remain open through 3 p.m. for those wishing to pay their respects.

The United Center is owned through a partnership by the Blackhawks parent, the Wirtz Corporation, and Jerry Reinsdorf, the owner of the Chicago Bulls and White Sox.

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In lieu of flowers, the Wirtz Family requests that donations be made to the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, the team's official charitable arm. This will further the foundation's mission of creating a healthier, smarter, and more secure world for children and families throughout Chicagoland – a cause for which Rocky cared deeply.

A separate, private service for the Wirtz Family and friends will take place on Aug. 8.

For more information on the passing of W. Rockwell “Rocky” Wirtz please visit: Blackhawks Mourn Passing of Chairman Rocky Wirtz.