One of the most respected figures in ice hockey, former Philadelphia Flyers and Chicago Blackhawks assistant coach Edward John "E.J." McGuire, died in Toronto aged 58 on Thursday.
The director of the NHL's Central Scouting Bureau since 2005, McGuire was one of the most beloved and accomplished men in the sport, NHL.com reported.
A head coach at the collegiate, junior and American Hockey League levels and an assistant coach for three NHL organizations over 12 seasons, McGuire died from cancer.
"The National Hockey League was privileged to benefit from E.J.'s expertise and enthusiasm, both of which were limitless," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said.
"The NHL family has suffered a tremendous loss. As we celebrate E.J.'s contributions and mourn his passing, we send our condolences — and our gratitude — to E.J.'s family and friends."
"EJ was a colleague, a friend and a mentor who influenced and enriched the hockey lives of thousands of players, coaches, parents and administrators in more than 30 years in the game," said NHL Senior Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Colin Campbell.
McGuire is survived by his wife, Terry, and daughters Jacqueline and Erin.
His funeral is scheduled for Tuesday in Oakville, Ontario.
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