Steve Montador Passes Away At 35

Former professional NHL player Steve Montador was found unconscious inside his house in Mississauga, Ontario on Sunday morning. The Peel Region Police revealed that he was later pronounced dead. The former defenseman, who became a part of six NHL teams, was 35 years old.

While there were no suspicions of foul play, the cause of death was not revealed by authorities. Montador experienced a number of concussions in the past and revealed that he had to struggle to recover from his most recent concussion.

He said that whenever people hint at sports as a microcosm for life, they are stating the truth. He said that he understands people who have a difficult time in dealing with being away from the things they like to do. He added that in this situation, there is a good amount of fear, uncertainty, anxiety and depression. Steve Montador indicated that he received a good amount of help when he was in the same situation and he felt he was taking the right steps.

In addition the Chicago Blackhawks, the last team he played for, Steve Montador also became a part of the Calgary Flames, Anaheim Ducks, Florida Panthers, Buffalo Sabres and Boston Bruins. He played a total of 571 games and scored 33 goals to go with 98 assists.

A number of players expressed their sadness after learning of the death of Montador through Twitter. The Chicago Blackhawks also released a statement showing their deep sadness as they mourned the loss of the former Blackhawk. The team joined many others in the NHL in keeping the family and friends of the late player in their prayers and thoughts during this difficult time in their lives.

We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of former Blackhawks and IceHogs defenseman Steve Montador. pic.twitter.com/9FpYyAdKED

We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of former Blackhawks and IceHogs defenseman Steve Montador. pic.twitter.com/9FpYyAdKED

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) February 15, 2015

RIP MONTY.. Ill miss you buddy... — Dave Bolland (@DaveBolland) February 15, 2015

RIP Monty. One of the better guys I have come across in the game. Truly saddened to hear of this. Keep him and his family in your thoughts

— brandon pirri (@pirri91) February 15, 2015

To my friend Steve Montador may u find peace in a better place. I'll miss you — NICK BOYNTON (@NICKBOYNTON24) February 15, 2015

So sad to hear the passing of my former teammate Steve Montador. I will always remember how good you were to me as a rookie Monty. #RIP

— Luke Adam (@LukeJAdam) February 15, 2015

NHL Players’ Association executive director Donald Fehr released a statement indicating that Montador easily became the friend of everybody he met in the game, including the players, club staff, media and fans. Fehr added that Montador was an active HNLPA member and worked closely with the staff of the organization. Montador dedicated a good amount of his time in promoting the interests of other players. Fehr also sent the thoughts and prayers of the players and staff to the family of Steve Montador, who will be greatly missed.

Posted by Andre Monohan on Tuesday February 17 2015, 11:37 AM EDT. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Featured News, World. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0