Former Chicago Blackhawks Chairman, Rocky Wirtz, renowned for his impactful contributions to sports and business, passed away at the age of 70 following a brief illness, know his cause of death and net worth
The news, shared on Tuesday, has left the Chicago community in mourning, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from colleagues and fans alike.
Chicago Blackhawks chairman Rocky Wirtz cause of death, net worth, family, wife, daughter, son, bio, age
Rocky Wirtz assumed leadership of the Blackhawks in 2007, a legacy that traces back to 1954 when his grandfather, Arthur Wirtz, acquired the team. Under Rocky’s guidance, the Blackhawks experienced a renaissance, achieving three monumental Stanley Cup victories in 2010, 2013, and 2015. These victories played a pivotal role in reigniting Chicago’s love for hockey.
4Rocky’s death was announced on the Blackhawks Twitter account, but no cause of death or location for his death was noted apart from it being due to an illness. He had a net worth of $500 million.
Born: 5 October 1952, Chicago, Illinois, United States
Died: 25 July 2023, NorthShore Evanston Hospital, Evanston, Illinois, United States
Children: Kendall Wirtz, Hillary Wirtz
Spouse: Marilyn Wirtz (m. 2003–2023), Kathleen Wirtz (m. ?–2003)
Siblings: Peter Wirtz, Gail Wirtz, Karey Wirtz Fix, Alyson Wirtz
Parents: Bill Wirtz, Alice Wirtz
Nationality: American
Let THIS be Rocky Wirtz’ legacy. When he could have said the right thing, he said this instead after settling with the Kyle Beach situation. pic.twitter.com/YRABhAjgYh
— Tyler McGillick (@TylerRichard93) July 26, 2023
We are deeply saddened to join the Wirtz Family in mourning the sudden passing of our Chairman W. Rockwell “Rocky” Wirtz today at the age of 70. pic.twitter.com/WA58pXWl9M
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) July 26, 2023
Wirtz’s influence wasn’t limited to the rink alone. He brokered a local TV deal for home games, a move that bolstered fan engagement, leading to a remarkable 13-year sellout streak. Always keeping community at the forefront, Wirtz further entrenched hockey’s place in Chicago by backing community-driven endeavors such as the construction of Fifth Third Arena and a state-of-the-art practice rink.
Rocky Wirtz’s multifaceted legacy
Beyond the ice, Rocky Wirtz was an influential figure in the business world. As co-chair of the Breakthru Beverage Group, he upheld the family’s reputable standing in the beverage industry. Also overseeing Wirtz Realty, he resided in Chicago’s northern suburbs alongside his wife, Marilyn, cherishing his roles as a father and grandfather.
However, challenges arose in Wirtz’s later tenure, with public scrutiny focusing on the Blackhawks’ response to allegations against former coach Brad Aldrich. Throughout, Wirtz maintained he was in the dark about the situation until it came to light in 2021.
Tributes reflecting a life’s impact by Rocky Wirtz
Rocky Wirtz’s death has sent shock waves through the sports world. Gary Bettman, the commissioner of the NHL, sent his deepest sympathies and spoke highly of Wirtz’s commitment to the Blackhawks and his unmatched business sense. Jerry Reinsdorf of the Bulls and White Sox, George McCaskey of the Bears, and Tom Ricketts of the Cubs were among the other sports stars who praised Wirtz’s path.
Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson, both from Illinois, called him a “Illinois titan” to show how important he was both on and off the pitch.
Rocky Wirtz’s achievements in sports, business, and charity show that he lived a life dedicated to his community and the sports he loved. His name is still etched in the heart of Chicago.
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