STATEMENT: Blackhawks Mourn Passing of Pat Stapleton

The Chicago Blackhawks have released the following statement on the passing of former team captain Pat Stapleton:

"The Chicago Blackhawks organization would like to express its deepest sympathy to the family, friends and former teammates of Pat Stapleton who passed away last night at the age of 79 due to complications from a stroke. As a former team captain and valued member of the Blackhawks Alumni Association, Stapleton's contributions to the organization will forever be remembered by the entire Blackhawks community."

PAT STAPLETON

**THE VERDICT**: Remembering Pat Stapleton

A native of Sarnia, Ontario, Stapleton played 545 games with the Blackhawks from 1965-73 scoring 327 points (41G, 286A). The defenseman served as team captain for Chicago during the 1969-70 season. His National Hockey career started with the Boston Bruins where he played two seasons and finished his NHL career with 635 games, 43 goals and 294 assists. During the 1972 Summit Series, Stapleton starred as a defenseman for Team Canada as they beat the Soviet Union in an eight-game series. His son, Mike, also played parts of five seasons with the Blackhawks (1986-1992).

Pat Stapleton is survived by his wife, Jackie, sons, Tom, Mike and Chris, daughter, Susan and 13 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughters, Mary and Maureen.