Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk died Monday from an unspecified illness, the franchise announced. He was 62.
"It is with great sadness that the family of Eugene Melnyk and the Ottawa Senators hockey organization announce his passing on March 28, 2022, after an illness he faced with determination and courage," the team said in a statement.
Melnyk purchased the Senators in August 2003, and the team achieved some success under his ownership, including an appearance in the 2007 Stanley Cup Final. He also served as the governor and chairman of the Senators and was the owner of the team's AHL affiliate, the Belleville Senators.