Rocky Wirtz takes over Hawks

Less than a week after the funeral of their father, sons Rocky and Peter Wirtz shifted duties within William Wirtz's $800 million empire, leaving control of the Chicago Blackhawks hockey franchise to Rocky Wirtz.

Rocky will assume the role of chairman of the Chicago Blackhawks. Peter Wirtz has resigned his position as vice president of the team but will retain his role as president of Bismarck Enterprises.

William Wirtz, who directed the team for 41 years as president and owner, died Sept. 26 at age 77 after a battle with cancer.

"My brother Peter informed me of his decision to leave his role as vice president of the Blackhawks. While I had hoped that Peter would stay on and help in rebuilding the Chicago Blackhawks into a winning and successful franchise, I respect his decision," Rocky Wirtz said in a statement released by the team.

"He has worked at my father's side for many years and has decided, at this time, to change his focus," Rocky said. "Peter will continue in leading Bismarck Enterprises and has pledged his complete support and loyalty to me and to the Chicago Blackhawks.

"I look forward to working with general manager Dale Tallon and head coach Denis Savard," he continued. "I feel the team is in good hands under Dale's guidance and leadership. We are all focused on putting a winning team on the ice and winning the Stanley Cup."

While leaving the team, Peter Wirtz said he backs his brother and the Blackhawks.

"My brother Rocky brings with him a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm from my family's other businesses and I know he will be successful in leading and directing the Blackhawks for many years to come," said Peter Wirtz. "As chairman of the Blackhawks, Rocky will have my full and complete cooperation and support during this period of transition. I know Rocky, Dale and Denis are committed to bringing our fans a championship."