In memory of Tom Hicks

Tom Hicks, former owner of the Dallas Stars and Texas Rangers, died Saturday at the age of 79.

Hicks was instrumental in shaping the Dallas Stars into what the organization is today after owning the team from 1995 to 2011. During that time, the Stars would secure multiple division titles, two Presidents Trophies, and the Stanley Cup in 1999.

Our franchise would not be in the position we are in today without Mr. Hicks’ ownership,” the Dallas Stars said in a statement. “His legacy will be honored by our franchise for decades to come.”

Not only did Hicks transform the Stars and Texas Rangers franchises into championship-caliber organizations, but he also co-owned Liverpool and would go on to help develop the Stars’ current home base, the American Airlines Center.

In sports, front office functions are often a forgotten part of the machine, but Hicks was a big reason why the machine was as well-oiled as it was. Seeing the rise of Mike Modano, the acquisition of recent Stars Hall of Famer Joe Nieuwendyk and the raising of the Stanley Cup. Tom Hicks played a major role in the whole thing, plus countless other events and movements made under his ownership.

“Being shoulder to shoulder with him, however, has always been about more than ballparks and stadiums,” Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said in a statement. “It was about personal respect, trust and friendship. We have traveled many miles together and I will miss him enormously. My heart goes out to his family.”

Hicks also served as a paratrooper in the Army Reserves and was a commissioner of the American Battle Monuments Commission. Hicks is survived by his wife of 35 years, his six children and 14 grandchildren.

His children released a joint statement.

“Of all he accomplished in his remarkable life, Tom Hicks’ most cherished title was: ‘Dad.’ No matter the trials he faced in life, he was constant in his generosity and love for his family. He remains a guiding force for our family, and we are deeply honored to continue expanding his legacy. While we are devastated by this loss, we are deeply grateful to have been his children.”

Thanks for all the memories, Mr. Hicks.