Dallas Stars announce heartbreaking loss on Sunday.

The Dallas Stars have made a heartbreaking announcement.

In an official statement released on Sunday by the team, the Stars have announced that Thomas O. Hicks, former team owner, has passed away at the age of 79. Hicks became owner of the team in 1995 when he purchased the Stars for $82 million, a steal of a deal given how much the team is valued at today. Under his leadership the Stars would win seven division titles, two Western Conference titles, and a pair of President's Trophies as the best team in the regular season. Hicks' greatest success however game in 1999 when the Stars were crowned Stanley Cup champions.

It could be argued however that Hicks biggest contribution to the team was his instrumental role in the development of the American Airlines Center, the arena that still serves as the home of the Dallas Stars to this day.

The Stars have released the following statement in conjunction with today's announcement:

The entire Dallas Stars family mourns the loss of our former owner Thomas O. Hicks, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 79.

During his ownership of the club from 1995 - 2011, the team experienced unprecedented success and captured multiple division titles, two Presidents' trophies and the 1999 Stanley Cup. He also played an instrumental role in the development and planning of the American Airlines Center, along with the grassroots growth of hockey through the creation of numerous starcenter facilities.

Our franchise would not be in the position we are today

Without the ownership of Mr. Hicks. His legacy will be honored by our franchise for decades to come.

A widely regarded pioneer in American business, he also made extraordinary contributions to the City of Dallas, helping shape the region's cultural, educational, and civic landscape. His impact will be part of our community forever but he will ultimately be remembered most for his profound love of family.

We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to his wife, Cinda Cree, six children, many grandchildren and the entire Hicks family.

Hicks is being well remembered by fans, many of whom have published messages sharing their own personal experiences with the man.

I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to the Hicks family, the Dallas Stars and all of Thomas' friends and loved ones.