DETROIT – Alex Delvecchio, a celebrated member of the Hockey Hall of Fame who was instrumental in the Detroit Red Wings securing three Stanley Cup championships in the 1950s, has passed away at the age of 93.
A spokesperson for the Red Wings confirmed Delvecchio`s death occurred at his home in Rochester, Michigan. While the specific cause of death was not immediately released, his family provided a statement through the team indicating that he died peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by loved ones.
In their statement, the family described him as “more than a hockey icon,” emphasizing his roles as a “devoted husband, loving father, great-grandfather, cherished friend and respected teammate to so many.” They added, “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 spent his entire distinguished NHL playing career with the Detroit Red Wings from 1951 to 1973. He amassed 1,325 points over 1,671 regular-season and playoff games. Playing primarily alongside fellow legend Gordie Howe, he was a vital part of the Stanley Cup-winning teams in 1952, 1954, and 1955. A testament to his character, he won the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct three times and was a two-time All-Star selection.
He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1977, and decades later, was recognized as one of the 100 greatest players in league history. Following his retirement as a player in the 1970s, he continued to serve the Red Wings organization in multiple capacities, including stints as general manager, head coach, or holding both roles concurrently.
Delvecchio holds the third position in franchise history for games played, surpassed only by Gordie Howe and Nicklas Lidstrom. His No. 10 jersey is permanently honored by hanging from the rafters at the team`s arena, signifying his lasting legacy as one of the Red Wings` retired numbers.
