Former NHL Star Kyle Calder Dead at 47, Daughter Asks Him to ‘Save a Spot on the Ice’

Former NHL star Kyle Calder was remembered in an emotional tribute by his daughter, Madison, after his death on Monday, June 15, at the age of 47. 

“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 shared via Instagram on Monday, June 15. “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.”

She continued, “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.”

Kyle died after suffering “a brief illness,” according to the Associated Press. An official cause of death has not been publicly released. 

“Thank you for being my biggest fan through every stage of my life,” Madison added. “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.”

Her post concluded, “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 ♥️🕊️🏒.”

Kyle played 10 seasons in the NHL for the Chicago Blackhawks, Philadelphia Flyers, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings and Anaheim Ducks. In 590 career regular season games, he scored 114 goals and added 180 assists. 

Former NHL player-turned-TV analyst Colby Armstrong left a comment for Madison about her father. 

“I’ve known your father a long time,” Armstrong, 43, wrote. “I used to train every day in the summer with him in Saskatoon. He had such a laid back, loving, easy going way to him that made him so easy to be around. I’m going to miss him a lot and loved seeing these pictures of him with you guys. 

He added, “I’m so sorry for you and your families [sic] loss, Madison. I’m going to miss my friend.”

Former NHL player Daniel Carcillo commented, “Your dad’s warm and loving spirit will live on with thousands of people that he touched Madison, including me. Beautiful tribute to a wonderful man.”