There’s sad news with a local connection from the sports world.
Dennis Hull, the two-way NHL forward who
starred alongside superstar brother Bobby Hull with the Chicago
Blackhawks and helped Canada win the 1972 Summit Series, died
Saturday. He was 81.
Hull was born and raised in the hamlet of Point Anne in eastern Belleville.
Nephew Bart Hull confirmed Hull’s death on social media, and
the Blackhawks announced the death with a statement from owner Rocky
Wirtz. No other details were available.
Hull played 13 of 14 seasons in the league with Chicago
before one final year with the Detroit Red Wings. He appeared in
five All-Star Games and was voted a second-team NHL All-Star in
1972-73.
While brother Bobby was excluded from playing for Canada
against the Soviet Union in ’72 because he was in the World Hockey
Association, Dennis went and recorded two goals and two assists in
four games, playing on a line with New York Rangers stars Jean
Ratelle and Rod Gilbert.
Hull had 303 goals and 351 assists for 654 points in 959
regular-season NHL games. He had another 67 points in 104 games in
the playoffs, during an era Chicago came close but never won the
Stanley Cup.
Below is a statement from Danny Wirtz, Blackhawks chairman and CEO as seen on NHL.com.
“The Chicago Blackhawks are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dennis Hull. Dennis enjoyed a distinguished career built on his scoring ability and consistency, leaving lasting contributions not only to the Blackhawks franchise, but to the game itself.
Known around the league for his immense skill, toughness and intelligence, Dennis was as dominant on the ice as he was beloved off it. He often drew on his sharp wit and sense of humor to keep the locker room loose, while his warmth and humility made everyone he met feel welcome.
On behalf of the Wirtz family and the entire Blackhawks organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Dennis’s family, friends and teammates, and the many fans who adored him.”
