DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bill Gadsby , who passed away on Thursday at the age of 88. Gadsby was a veteran of 1,248 NHL games between the Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers and Red Wings, spending the final five seasons of his legendary career in Detroit from 1961-66. Gadsby also served as head coach of the Red Wings from 1968-70, compiling a 35-31-12 record.

Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1970, Gadsby spent 20 seasons in the NHL, totaling 568 points (130-438-568) and 1,539 penalty minutes. In 323 games with the Red Wings, he recorded 112 points (18-94-112) and 478 penalty minutes. The Calgary, Alberta, native was a three-time NHL First-Team All-Star (1956, 1958 and 1959) and a four-time NHL Second-Team All-Star (1953, 1954, 1957 and 1965).

The Red Wings organization would like to offer its deepest sympathies to the Gadsby family during this difficult time.