Former NHL defenseman Steve Montador died at age 35, as first reported by TVA’s Renaud Lavoie.
The Mississauga News reports that he was found dead at his home at 2 a.m. on Sunday morning. Police do not suspect foul play.
Montador last performed in the NHL for the Chicago Blackhawks in 2011-12. He played 571 regular season games spread out between the Calgary Flames, Florida Panthers, Buffalo Sabres, Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins and Blackhawks.
Many may remember him most from his time when the Flames, as he appeared in 20 postseason games during Calgary’s memorable run to the 2004 Stanley Cup Final.
He spent the 2013-14 season in the KHL, and spoke with CSNChicago.com about his struggles with depression and concussion symptoms back in March 2013:
“I can see why people have a hard time with a number of different things and being taken away from something they love to do and not sure if you’d ever get back the chance. There’s a lot of uncertainty, a lot of fear, a lot of anxiety and depression that comes with that,” Montador said. “I’ve had a lot of help to work through that and I feel like I’ve taken the right steps.”
The Chicago Blackhawks released the following statement regarding Montador’s passing:
“With deep sadness we mourn the unfortunate loss of former Blackhawk Steve Montador. We join the many others throughout the NHL in keeping Steve’s family and friends in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
People are already sharing their memories of Montador, whether it be fellow players or media members who had glowing things to say about how open he was.
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
Steve Montador will always be missed😢
— Marc Savard (@MSavvy91) February 15, 2015
It is with great sadness to learn of the death of former #Flames defenceman Steve Montador. Condolences to Steve's family. #HeartandSoul
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 15, 2015
Steve Montador was not only a very good player, he was a throwback to when athletes treated everyone (media included) as equals. RIP.
— Matt Kalman (@MattKalman) February 15, 2015
Lovely guy, Steve Montador. Really embraced unexpected run for the roses. Added immeasurably to the enjoyment for teammates and, yes, media
— George Johnson (@GeoJohnson57) February 15, 2015
#RIP Steve Montador. Got to know him in Europe in '04. Always smiling when we spoke. Loved life & hockey. Too young: http://t.co/Ayvs20ScWH
— Farhan Lalji (@FarhanLaljiTSN) February 15, 2015