Calgary Flames co-owner Alvin Libin has died at the age of 95.
The Flames announced his death on Monday, and no cause of death was given.
Libin joined the Flames ownership group in 1994.
He was part of the organization’s growth and expansion to bring the CFL’s Stampeders, WHL’s Hitmen and National Lacrosse League’s Roughnecks under the umbrella of the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC).
The relocation of the AHL’s Wranglers to Calgary and the start of construction of a new event centre to replace the 43-year-old Saddledome also happened during Libin’s co-ownership.
Libin was a director on several corporate and community boards. He was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2001 and was inducted into the Alberta Order of Excellence in 2004.
N. Murray Edwards, chairman of the CSEC board, said, “Alvin was a great partner and friend to all owners over the years. His passion for the Calgary Flames and the other CSEC teams was second to none.
“Alvin will be missed, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Libin family.”
CSEC president Robert Hayes added, “Alvin’s vision, generosity and passion helped shape not only CSEC, but also the broader community. He was a respected and trusted leader, a valued partner, a community philanthropist, and a friend to many.
“While his impact on CSEC will endure for generations, it is the relationships he built and the lives he touched that will be remembered most.”
Born in Calgary in 1931, Libin built a successful career in the corporate sector. His business interests extended from real estate to oil and gas to financial services.
He also held an Honorary Laws degree from the University of Calgary.
