Alex Delvecchio, a revered member of the Hockey Hall of Fame and a key figure in the Detroit Red Wings` three Stanley Cup victories in the 1950s, has passed away at the age of 93.
A spokesperson for the Red Wings confirmed that Delvecchio died peacefully at his home in Rochester, Michigan, on Tuesday, surrounded by his family. The specific cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
In a statement released by the team, Delvecchio`s family shared, “Alex was more than a hockey icon. He was a devoted husband, loving father, great-grandfather, cherished friend and respected teammate to so many. While the world knew him as an incredible hockey player with numerous accomplishments on the ice, we knew him as someone whose humility, strength, competitiveness, kindness and heart were even greater than his known achievements.”
Delvecchio`s entire illustrious NHL career, spanning from 1951 to 1973, was spent with the Detroit Red Wings. Over 1,671 regular-season and playoff games, he accumulated 1,325 points. Playing alongside the legendary Gordie Howe, he contributed significantly to the team`s championships in 1952, 1954, and 1955. His exceptional sportsmanship earned him the Lady Byng Trophy three times, and he was selected as a two-time All-Star.
His remarkable contributions to the sport were recognized with induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1977. Decades later, he was also named among the 100 greatest players in the league`s history. Following his playing career, Delvecchio remained involved with the Red Wings organization throughout the 1970s, serving in various capacities, including general manager and head coach.
Delvecchio holds the third position in franchise history for games played, surpassed only by Gordie Howe and Nicklas Lidstrom. His legacy is permanently honored at Little Caesars Arena, where his number 10 hangs from the rafters, one of the few numbers retired by the storied Red Wings franchise.
Tristan Blackwood