DETROIT – Mike Ilitch purchased the Detroit Red Wings in 1982. According to NBC News, Ilitch and his wife paid $8 million for the team. The once ailing team went on to wing the Stanley Cup in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008.
Vice president and general manager of the Red Wings, Ken Holland, took to the Red Wings Facebook page to release a statement:
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Mr. I stands as one of America's greatest sports team owners. To have been able to work with him for more than 30 years and be a part of turning a struggling franchise into a champion again was an experience of a lifetime. His commitment to his team and our fans, is the reason we all feel a part of “Hockeytown”. He will be deeply missed by those of us who were fortunate enough to know him and call him a friend." - Ken Holland
"Mr. I stands as one of America's greatest sports team owners. To have been able to work with him for more than 30 years...
Posted by Detroit Red Wings on Friday, February 10, 2017
Players for the Red Wings also expressed their condolences on social media:
Really sad to learn the news of Mr I's passing. He meant everything to the Wings, Tigers & Detroit. Best owner in sports. #RIPMrIlitch
— Dylan Larkin (@Dylanlarkin39) February 11, 2017
Saddened to hear about the passing of Mr.Ilitch. He was a pleasure to play for and his will to win was second to none. #MrI #Wings #Tigers
— Danny DeKeyser (@DeKeyser5) February 11, 2017