Alexander Delvecchio Obituary
Published by Legacy on Jul. 13, 2025.
Alexander Peter Delvecchio
December 3, 1931 – July 1, 2025
Alexander Peter Delvecchio, age 93, passed away peacefully at home on July 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He lived a long, full, and extraordinary life defined by humility, passion, and kindness.
Born in Fort William, Ontario, to Annie Marie (Tapak) and Frances Anthony Delvecchio, Alex's love for hockey began early. As a boy, he would sneak out to play on the frozen lake till late into the night – driven by a deep love for the game, despite his father's frequent reminders that, "you can't eat pucks." Thankfully, Alex didn't listen.
That love for hockey led to one of the most legendary careers in the sport. Alex spent his entire playing career with the Detroit Red Wings, a rare distinction in any professional sport. He went on to serve as both coach and general manager, dedicating over two decades to the organization. His contributions were honored with induction into the National Hockey Hall of Fame, the retirement of his Detroit Red Wings #10 jersey, now hanging in Little Caesars Arena, and the unveiling of a bronze statue in his honor on the arena concourse.
Despite his achievements, Alex remained that rare kind of person – a true hockey superstar who never sought the limelight and never forgot his beginnings.
Off the ice, Alex led a life full of joy, friendship, and generosity. He participated in countless local and national charity events, golf tournaments, and business engagements, especially during the off-season. A passionate golfer, he was a core member of the Northern Michigan Invitational Tournament (NMIT) for over 50 years – winning the coveted green jacket five times.
At home, he was a tireless tinkerer, happiest when puttering around the garage, basement, or garden shed. He delighted in solving problems and always had a project underway. Alex was also known for his culinary skills – especially his signature spaghetti and meatballs, made with his secret sauce recipe that now lives on through his children.
After his hockey playing years, he loved to snow ski. Alex and his beloved wife, Judy, shared that passion – often visiting Colorado, though they spent most of their time at local favorites like Treetops and Hidden Valley, near their northern Michigan cottage.
He is survived by his wife Judy; children Kenny (late Sue), Jan Reneau (Gary), Alex (Kori), Corrine, and Lenny (Karen), from his first marriage to Teresa Delvecchio; sister Elsie Angers (late Hank); niece Jennifer and nephew Jeff; brothers-in-law Tim (Cindy) Munro and Jim (Diane) Munro; 10 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren – all of whom he loved deeply.
His children were inspired by one of his favorite sayings: "When the one Great Scorer comes to call your name, it's not whether you won or lost, it's how you played the game." A profound testament to how Alex played both the game of hockey and of life – with unmatched dedication, humility and heart.
Alex's warmth, easygoing nature, and steadfast character will be missed beyond words.
A private service has been held. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to the Michigan Humane Society, a cause that mattered deeply to him.
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