Claude Lemieux’s son has addressed his father’s death following the NHL star’s sudden passing aged 60.
News broke yesterday (May 28) that the former Montreal Canadiens player had died.
Canadiens owner Geoff Molson shared in a moving statement: “Today is a dark day for the Canadiens family and the entire hockey community.
“A fierce competitor who rose to the occasion in big moments, Claude was a relentless, courageous and tenacious player who led the team to the highest honors.
“He embodied the very essence of being a Montreal Canadiens player. Today we mourn the untimely passing of one of our champions. Our thoughts are with his family on this difficult day.”
The NHL Alumni Association also paid tribute, saying it was ‘devastated’ as it reflected on Lemieux’s standout career.
“He was loved by his wife and four children, and on behalf of the Lemieux family, we kindly ask that everyone respect their privacy during this difficult time,” the organization said.
Lemieux is survived by his wife, Deborah, his daughter Claudia, and his sons Christopher, Brendan, and Michael.
It has since been reported that the hockey star died by suicide, with the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office confirming the cause to Us Weekly.
Brendan Lemieux, who also pursued a career in hockey, has now shared a message following his father’s death.
Posting a photo with his dad and his young son on Instagram, Brendan wrote: “I love you dad! My son’s favorite person is going to watch from above for a while. We will see you.”
Tributes have also continued to pour in online, with many sharing memories of Lemieux and his impact on the sport.
One person wrote: “RIP to one of the greatest playoff performers in NHL history. a Montreal Canadians legend, a 4 Time Stanley Cup Champion and was a key factor in helping Montreal, New Jersey & Colorado win the Stanley Cup….Gone too soon.”
“Way too young,” said another. “Rest in Peace. You were a spark plug out there on the ice.”
A third added: “This man completely shaped the landscape of the NHL in the 90s. He won several cups and ignited the most passionate rivalry I’ve ever seen. Rest In Peace Legend.”
The news has stunned many, particularly as Lemieux appeared in public only days earlier.
He was a torchbearer at Game 3 of the NHL’s Eastern Conference Finals between the Montreal Canadiens and Carolina Hurricanes in Montreal on Monday (May 25).
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