A celebrated NHL star whose career was defined by playoff heroics and championship success has died at age 60, leaving family members, former teammates, and hockey fans in mourning.
Authorities in Florida confirmed Thursday that Claude Lemieux was found dead at the warehouse of his family’s home-design company in Lake Park, per the New York Post.
According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the hockey legend’s body was discovered around 3:32 a.m. after he failed to return home.
The New York Post reported that authorities said he died by suicide.
One of his sons reportedly located him at the family business, Andros Home, which specializes in furnishings and architectural elements.
Relatives gathered in Palm Beach following the tragedy. His daughter, Claudia Lemieux, told The Post that family members had come together and were meeting with investigators.
The loss sent shockwaves through both the local community and the hockey world. At the family business on Friday, employees were seen embracing one another as supporters stopped by to leave flowers and offer condolences.
“He was a hockey guy — hockey people are a different breed,” fan Bill Rodgers told The Post.
“These guys beat the s–t out of each other, then they shake hands after. … We brought flowers out of respect.”
Claudia later shared a heartfelt tribute on social media.
“No words to express the level of devastation we feel.”
“I love you forever, Daddy. Forever your only girl.”
His son Brendan, a professional hockey player in Switzerland, also posted an emotional message honoring his father.
“I love you dad! My son’s favorite person is going to watch from above for a while. We will see you,” he wrote alongside a photograph showing the former NHL star holding his grandson.
Hunter Bishop, Claudia’s husband, remembered him as “a truly amazing man.”
“Words can’t even begin to describe how much you meant to everyone. Love you big man,” Bishop wrote.
Nicknamed “Pepe,” the former forward built one of the most successful postseason résumés in NHL history. He won four Stanley Cups during his career, capturing championships with the Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, and New Jersey Devils.
His crowning achievement came in 1995 when he earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP while helping deliver New Jersey’s first Stanley Cup title.
Although many fans knew him as a fierce competitor and relentless agitator on the ice, those closest to him often described a much gentler personality away from hockey.
Former NHL star Brendan Shanahan reflected on that contrast while speaking to The New York Times.
“[He was] a big crier. A big softie,” Shanahan said.
“Sort of hidden behind that reputation on the ice, he was a very sweet and sensitive man.”
The tragedy came only days after the former player appeared at Montreal’s Bell Centre to participate in a ceremonial torch-lighting event before Game 3 of the NHL Eastern Conference Final.
In a statement, the New Jersey Devils praised his impact on the organization.
“A clutch player on the ice and greatly appreciated by Devils’ fans off it, Claude’s impact in bringing the first-ever Stanley Cup to New Jersey will forever be remembered as one of the paramount performances in team history.”
“Widely respected throughout the NHL, both as a trusted agent and a valued colleague, Claude leaves behind a lasting legacy within our game that he gave so much to.”
