Carlos Osorio/Associated Press
Mike Ilitch, who has owned the Detroit Red Wings since 1982 and Detroit Tigers since 1992, died Friday at the age of 87.
Ilitch's son Christopher issued a statement through Ilitch Holdings Inc. about his father.
"My father was a once-in-a-generation entrepreneur, visionary and leader, setting the tone for our organization and our family," said Ilitch, per ESPN.com. "He made such a positive impact in the world of sports, in business and in the community, and we will remember him for his unwavering commitment to his employees, his passion for Detroit, his generosity to others and his devotion to his family and friends.