Wife of Dominic Moore passes away, 32

The wife of veteran NHL center Dominic Moore has died after a nine-month battle with liver cancer.

Katie Moore, 32, passed away Monday at a hospital in Boston. She was diagnosed with a rare form of the disease in April, two months after Dominic Moore was acquired by the San Jose Sharks from the Tampa Bay Lightning just before the NHL trade deadline.

"On behalf of my family, I'd like to express our deep appreciation for the overwhelming care and sympathy we have received since my wife's passing on Monday," Dominic said in a statement released Wednesday. "The example Katie displayed throughout her life and in particular during her illness is a source of continued strength and inspiration for us all, as is the love and support of those around us. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the future Katie Moore foundation at katiemoore.org."

Dominic Moore did not play in San Jose's final two Stanley Cup Playoff games last season against the St. Louis Blues and later released a statement explaining his absence:

"While it was disappointing to not be able to compete with my Sharks teammates in the playoffs, my wife's condition and care come first and I want to thank the Sharks organization, my teammates and their families for the love and support that has been shown to Katie and I during this difficult time."

The Sharks issued a statement Tuesday offering their "heartfelt condolences to Dominic Moore and the Urbanic family regarding the passing of Katie Moore. The courage that she showed during her illness is an inspiration to everyone who knew her. You will all be in our thoughts and prayers."

The National Hockey League Players' Association also released a statement Tuesday:

"All players and staff are deeply saddened by the passing of Katie Moore. Katie fought her battle with courage and conviction, and she will be greatly missed. At this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers go out to Dominic Moore and the Urbanic family, as well as Katie's many friends."

Dominic Moore, 32, is an unrestricted free agent. He had six assists in 23 games with the Sharks, his ninth NHL team, and has 67 goals and 185 points in 530 career games.