NHL
Chicago BlackhawksOpens in new window
Los Angeles KingsOpens in new window

Former Blackhawks, Kings forward Calder dead at 47

Published: 

DALLAS - MARCH 26: Kyle Calder #19 of the Los Angeles Kings takes a breather against the Dallas Stars on March 26, 2009 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Glenn James/NHLI via Getty Images) (Glenn James/NHLI via Getty Images)

Former Chicago Blackhawks and Los Angeles Kings forward Kyle Calder has died, the National Hockey League’s Alumni Association announced on Tuesday.

He was 47.

“As Kyle often said, ‘Family over everything,’” a statement read. “Those words were not just something he believed; they were the way he lived his life. His family was the centre of his universe, and his love, devotion, and pride in them were evident in everything he did.

“Our love, thoughts, prayers, and unwavering support are with the Calder family during this incredibly difficult time. We hope they find comfort in knowing how deeply Kyle was respected, admired, and loved by so many throughout the hockey community.”

A native of Mannvillle, Alta., Calder appeared in 590 NHL games across nine NHL seasons with the Blackhawks, Philadelphia Flyers, Detroit Red Wings, Kings and Anaheim Ducks from 2000 to 2010. He scored 114 goals and added 180 assists.

Internationally, Calder represented Canada on a number of occasions, including as part of a gold medal-winning effort at the 2003 IIHF World Championship in Helsinki. He had a goal and an assists in nine games that spring.