Myles O’Connor, a former National Hockey League defenceman who later became a respected business leader in Calgary, Alberta, has died suddenly at the age of 59.

The Colorado Avalanche announced his death on October 8, 2026, expressing condolences to the O’Connor family. His son, Logan O’Connor, plays forward for the Avalanche and stepped away from the team to spend time with his family following the loss.

The cause of Myles O’Connor’s death has not been publicly disclosed in the reports reviewed. His passing has prompted tributes from former teammates, hockey journalists and people who knew him through his business career. <Cite refs={[“turn987817search1″,”turn987817search0”]}/>

Myles O’Connor’s Hockey Career

Born in Calgary on April 2, 1967, O’Connor built his career through Canadian junior hockey and the University of Michigan, where he played four seasons for the Wolverines.

The New Jersey Devils selected him in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft. He began his professional career in 1989, joining the Devils organization before making his NHL debut on November 18, 1990.

O’Connor appeared in 43 NHL regular-season games between 1990 and 1994, playing for the New Jersey Devils and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. He recorded three goals and four assists during his NHL career.

His professional journey also included time in the American Hockey League and the International Hockey League, followed by a season playing in Japan in 1997-98. <Cite refs={[“turn987817search0″,”turn987817search8”]}/>

From Professional Hockey to Calgary Business

After retiring from professional hockey, O’Connor returned to Calgary and took on a leadership role at O’Connors, the family’s menswear business.

His work in retail established another chapter in his career, connecting him with customers and members of the Calgary business community. A tribute shared by hockey journalist Eric Francis described O’Connor as a welcoming figure and a proud father who supported his son’s progress in the sport. <Cite refs={[“turn987817search1″,”turn987817search3”]}/>

Family and Legacy

O’Connor’s connection to hockey continued through Logan, who joined the Colorado Avalanche organization in 2018 and helped the team win the Stanley Cup in 2022.

Following news of his father’s death, Logan took time away from the Avalanche to be with his family. The organization offered its condolences as relatives, friends and former teammates mourned the loss.

Myles O’Connor leaves behind a legacy that spans professional hockey and Calgary’s business community. His career connected him with teammates and colleagues across several countries, while his son’s achievements carried the family name into a new generation of NHL hockey.

As tributes continue, the family has been remembered by the hockey community during a difficult period of loss.