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Devastating News as Former Chicago Blackhawks Defenseman Sadly Passes Away

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jun 28, 2025 11:15 AM ET

Very devastating news has hit the hockey world, as former Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Fred Hucul has passed away at the age of 93.

The NHL Alumni Association revealed the unfortunate news of the passing of Fred Hucul at 93 years of age. They issued a very heartwarming statement on social media X as well, which can be seen below.

'The NHL Alumni Association is deeply saddened to learn that Fred Hucul has passed away at the age of 93.
Born in Tuberose, Saskatchewan, Fred made his NHL debut for the Chicago Blackhawks on March 3, 1951, and would score his first career goal shortly thereafter on March 15.

Fred remained with the Blackhawks organization for the first four years of his professional career before spending time in the Western Hockey League with the Calgary Stampeders, where he played alongside his younger brother, Alex.

As the NHL expanded from 6 teams to 12 ahead of the 1967-68 campaign, Fred signed with the St. Louis Blues, making his return to the NHL after 13 years.

Fred went on to coach St. Louis' minor league affiliate in Kansas City until the conclusion of the 1969-70 season.

Following his retirement from professional hockey, Fred and his family happily settled in Arizona.

We send our deepest condolences to Fred's family, friends, and former teammates during this incredibly difficult time.'

- NHL Alumni

Born in Tuberose, Saskatchewan, Fred started his NHL career playing for the Chicago Blackhawks on March 3, 1951, and tallied his first goal a couple of days later, on March 15.

He played the early part of his career with the Blackhawks before joining the Western Hockey League, where he played for the Calgary Stampeders and joined his younger brother, Alex.

Hucul joined the expansion St. Louis Blues to restart his career

After spending over a decade away from the NHL, Fred miraculously returned to the league with the expansion St. Louis Blues in 1967, 13 years after his initial debut.

After retiring as a player, Fred transitioned into coaching, managing the Blues' minor league affiliate in Kansas City through the end of the 1969-70 season.

Fred later retired from the game, and he moved to Arizona and lived with his family away from the rink. We extend our deepest sympathies to Fred's family, friends, and past teammates during this sad time. His memory will live on with all of us forever.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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