Former Canadiens owner George Gillett Jr. passes away at 87
A former majority owner of the Montreal Canadiens, George Gillett Jr. passed away at age 87, the hockey club confirmed on Wednesday.
Gillett owned a majority stake in the hockey club from Jan. 31, 2001 through to June 20, 2009 and also owned the Bell Centre. His initial stake in the team and building in 2001 cost $275 million, with $140 million in loans. In 2009, he sold his shares to the Molson family.
“On behalf of the entire Canadiens organization, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to George’s family,” said Canadiens owner, president and CEO Geoff Molson in the team’s press release. “George immersed himself in the Montreal community and was appreciated by everyone in the organization. We sincerely appreciate his contributions to the Montreal Canadiens during his time as owner.”
Born on Oct. 22, 1938, in Racine, Wisconsin, Gillett founded Brook Creek Management Corp., a portfolio management firm, and in 2007, became an owner of Liverpool FC in the English Premier League, owning both the famed soccer club and hockey team at the same time for parts of two years.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, who helped represent Gillett among the other owners, also commented on the former Canadiens’ boss’s passing, adding, “George Gillett’s passion for the Montreal Canadiens and commitment to the city of Montreal were demonstrated throughout his tenure as owner of the storied franchise from 2001 to 2009. He guided the Canadiens through a significant chapter in their history that included preparations for their Centennial Celebration, which honored the franchise’s rich legacy and seminal place in our game.”
“George was a friend whose company I always enjoyed, whose counsel was wise, and whose energy was contagious. His contributions to the hockey world left an enduring mark, and his legacy will continue to be felt throughout the game for years to come. The National Hockey League sends its heartfelt condolences to his family and many friends.”
As of Wednesday, the Canadiens have not announced any tributes or memorials. The team is set to open the 2026-27 NHL season on Sept. 29 against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
