Claude Lemieux, a two-time Stanley Cup champion and respected figure in hockey, died Thursday at age 60, according to his family. His death surprised many, especially after he carried the Montreal Canadiens’ torch at their home arena Monday before a playoff game.
During the ceremony, Lemieux appeared in his No. 32 Canadiens sweater, smiling as he carried the flame toward a darkened rink. News of his passing prompted tributes from across the hockey community. His daughter, Claudia Lemieux, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram Stories, saying, “No words to express the level of devastation we feel. I love you forever daddy. Forever your only girl.”
His son, Brendan Lemieux, also honored his father with a social media post, sharing a photo of three generations of their family. He wrote, “I love you dad! My son’s favorite person is going to watch from above for a while. We will see you,” along with a red heart emoji. Brendan played in the NHL for a decade, most recently with Carolina during the 2023-24 season.
Lemieux grew up in Mont-Laurier, Quebec, and made a notable mark in hockey history. He scored one of the most famous goals in Canadiens history in 1986, slipping a backhand shot past Hartford goalie Mike Liut in Game 7 of the second round.
Former Canadiens player Doug Gilmour recalled Lemieux’s unique ability to frustrate opponents while earning respect from teammates. Gilmour said, “He was a pain in the a– to play against, but you wanted him on your team.”
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
