Breaking: Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk has passed away at 62
Every now and again, things happen around the NHL that simply transcend hockey. This is one of those moments. The Ottawa Senators have learned of the passing of owner Eugene Melnyk, the team announced via the team's website.
The news was shared with the team by Melnyk's family on Monday evening. It was also revealed that Melnyk was suffering from an unspecified illness that he had been battling for some time. The Toronto native was just 62 years old.
Melnyk purchased the Ottawa Senators franchise back in 2003 and helped turn the struggling franchise around. At the time of the purchase, the organization was preparing to go bankrupt. Melnyk purchased the Sens for $92M. As of 2020, the franchise was valued at over $450M.
A philanthropist at heart, Melnyk donated over $100M to various local charities through the Senators Community Foundation over the years.
Rest in peace, Eugene. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Melnyk family and the Ottawa Senators organization during this difficult time.
