Former Blackhawks forward Kyle Calder dead at 47 as daughter posts touching tribute

Former 10-year NHL veteran Kyle Calder died Monday following a brief illness, according to The Associated Press.

He was 47.

The report did not share further information or an official cause of death.

Calder’s daughter, Madison, shared a heartfelt tribute to him in an Instagram post on Monday, including photos of them from her childhood.

“Dad, there will never ever be enough words in the world to describe how incredibly lucky I was to have you as my dad,” Madison wrote. “Never in a million years would I have thought this day would come. There will forever be a void in my heart, but forever a spot just for you.

“The father, husband, son, man, friend, coach, hockey player, and everything in between that you were is truly indescribable. The lessons you taught me, the strength you showed me, and the person you pushed me to become every single day- I carry all of it with me.

“Thank you for being my biggest fan through every stage of my life. Thank you for loving me unconditionally. I would give anything for one more conversation, one more hug, one more ‘I love you,” or to hear your voice one more time.

“I love you more than anything in the world to the moon and back infinitely. Save me a spot on the ice, Dad. I know you’re skating around in heaven cheering all of us on from above. Fly high ♥️🕊️🏒 6/15/26. Love, your Annie.”

Calder was selected by the Blackhawks in the fifth round (No. 130) of the 1997 NHL Draft and played in 590 career games, including 18 Stanley Cup playoff games, with the Chicago Blackhawks, Philadelphia Flyers, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks.

His best season was 2005-06 with the Blackhawks when when the forward set NHL career highs in goals (26) and points (59) in 79 games.

“The Chicago Blackhawks mourn the loss of Kyle Calder and extend our deepest condolences to Kyle’s family during this extremely difficult and tragic time,” Blackhawks owner Danny Wirtz said in a statement.

“Kyle approached life with the same passion, intensity and incredible dedication that defined his play. His commitment to the game remained strong long after his professional career ended, sharing his love for hockey with all generations of players through his work with Little Blackhawks, local youth teams and the Chicago Blackhawks Alumni Association. While Kyle’s time with us was far too short, I’m comforted in knowing his legacy will live on for many years to come.”

Calder last played with the Ducks in the 2009-10 season.

He retired after playing 27 games for Bakersfield of the ECHL in 2011-12.