He wasn’t the winningest general manager in Penguins history. Nor did his teams capture a Stanley Cup. Or even a division title. Yet Jack Riley was a pivotal figure through the Pens’ difficult early years. Thanks, in large part, to his perseverance and dedication, a foundation for future champions was formed.
Riley, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 97, remained an active supporter of the team he helped build long after he was replaced at the Pens’ helm. Beloved, too.
“He’s done so much for us,” said friend and fellow former Pens GM Eddie Johnston in 2014.