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Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk passed away on Monday night at age 62.
The franchise announced the news in a statement, saying Melnyk was battling an undisclosed illness which he battled “with determination and courage.” The billionaire bought the Senators back in 2003 for $92 million. Melnyk found success in the pharmaceutical and medical sales industry before purchasing the Senators. Ottawa made the Stanley Cup Final in 2007.
Melnyk passed away “peacefully surrounded by his family and will be fondly remembered by his many friends and associates.”
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman also issued a statement on Melnyk’s passing.
Statement from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on the passing of Eugene Melnyk. https://t.co/PaRTa5LXiF pic.twitter.com/oLAO8KqCBS
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) March 29, 2022
“While successful in business, it was our game and his Senators that he was most passionate about,” Bettman said. “Eugene was often outspoken but he maintained an unwavering commitment to the game and his roots and he loved nothing more than donning a Senators sweater and cheering on his beloved team.
“On behalf of the entire National Hockey League. I extend my deepest sympathies to Eugene’s daughters, Anna and Olivia, his extended family, and all those who benefited from his generosity.”
