Farewell to Claude Lemieux

Former Rangers player Chris Nilan shared a heartfelt goodbye to his teammate Claude Lemieux, who tragically took his own life at the age of 60.

Nilan posted a photo of them together at Montreal’s Bell Center, captured before Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Canadiens and Hurricanes.

Lemieux famously carried the torch during the Canadiens’ 3-2 loss.

“You never know when you’ll see someone for the last time. Rest in peace, Mon Ami,” Nilan wrote, with “Mon Ami” translating to “my friend” in French.

The pair were teammates for over four seasons with the Canadiens, from 1983 until Nilan’s trade to the Rangers in 1988. They secured the Stanley Cup together in 1986, the only championship for Nilan and one of four for Lemieux during his lengthy career.

More than four decades later, Nilan and Lemieux appeared to have maintained their friendship. Nilan had previously shared a snapshot of the two alongside former teammate Sergio Momesso just a day before.

Nilan’s comment, “Hub go,” reflects a simple yet warm sentiment.

Lemieux’s unexpected passing has shaken the NHL community, with numerous figures, including former teammate Joe Sakic and rival Darren McCarthy, expressing their condolences. His son Brendan, also a former NHL player, joined in paying tribute.

According to reports, Lemieux’s death was ruled a suicide, a fact that shocked many fans and players alike.

Tragically, one of Lemieux’s sons discovered him early in the morning in a storage room at his family’s furniture store in Lake Park, Florida. Concerned family members had been worried when he didn’t return home.

Lemieux began his impressive career with the Canadiens before moving on to teams like the Devils and Avalanche, famously winning two Cups with each of those franchises, while also playing for the Coyotes, Stars, and Sharks.

His career numbers included 379 goals and 407 assists in 1,215 games played.

In a statement, Jeff Molson, Owner and CEO of Groupe CH, conveyed, “Today is a dark day for the Canadiens family and the entire hockey community. Our deepest condolences go out to Claude’s family and loved ones.” He added that Lemieux was a fierce competitor who embodied the spirit of the Montreal Canadiens and emphasized the team’s sorrow over losing such a champion.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, you can reach out to 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for confidential support.