Longtime NHL franchise owner has passed away.

A longtime NHL team owner and community leader has passed away.

According to the Detroit Free Press, Detroit Red Wings owner Mike Ilitch died today at the age of 87, according his company, Ilitch Holdings Inc. His family plans to hold a private funeral service for him.

Ilitch was the business visionary was a huge contributor to hockey, as well as his community. He owned the Red Wings, Tigers and the Fox Theatre, along with operating the city-owned Joe Louis Arena, Cobo, as well as Little Caesars arenas.

“My father was a once-in-a-generation entrepreneur, visionary and leader, setting the tone for our organization and our family,” said Christopher Ilitch, President and CEO of Ilitch Holdings, Inc., in a statement.

His accomplishments are truly a staple in Detroit, and will be for a long time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Ilitch family in this difficult time.

[pub]