Former Blackhawk Reggie Fleming dead at 73

Former Chicago Blackhawks player Reggie Fleming has died at age 73.

Fleming's son, Chris Fleming, says his father died Saturday at a suburban Chicago hospital.

Fleming spent four of his 12 National Hockey League seasons with the Blackhawks. From 1960 to 1964, the Montreal native had 84 penalty minutes and 5 points in 37 postseason appearances.

In 1961, Fleming helped the Hawks capture the Stanley Cup.

Fleming also spent two seasons with the World Hockey Association's Chicago Cougars from 1972 to 1974.

"Today is a sad day for the Blackhawks family, with the loss of Reggie," General Manager Dale Tallon said in a statement issued by the Blackhawks. "On the ice he was fierce competitor, and off the ice he was caring and gentle. We will certainly miss him and his strong passion for the Blackhawks."

The Montreal native registered 455 penalty minutes and 47 points over 261 regular-season games for the Hawks.

"We will certainly miss Reggie, a life-long Blackhawk," said Blackhawks Chairman Rocky Wirtz. "He'll be remembered for his fiery personality and his support for this franchise, which did not waver in good times or in bad. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family."