Public Media from Michigan State University

Ex-Red Wings, Blackhawks tough guy Probert dies

By AP

DETROIT – Retired hockey enforcer Bob Probert, who played for the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks and struggled to overcome drinking problems, has died. He was 45.

Family friend Rich Rogow says Probert was on a boat in Lake St. Clair with his wife, children and in-laws when he "developed severe chest pains" Monday.

Rogow says Probert's father-in-law gave him CPR, but he died at Ontario's Windsor Regional Medical Center.

Probert played for the Wings in 1985-1994 and the Blackhawks in 1995-2002.

Red Wings owners Mike and Marian Ilitch say he was "always there for his teammates" and was one of the toughest men in the NHL.

Blackhawks President John McDonough says Probert "will always be a member of the Blackhawks family."

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Email