NHL community shares condolences, memories after death of Ray Emery

Former NHL goalie Ray Emery drowned Sunday while swimming near his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario. He was 35 years old.

Emery spent 12 seasons as an NHL goalie after breaking into the league with the Ottawa Senators in 2003. He’d play with three more teams as a reliable backstop, enjoying his best season with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2012-13. He’d earn an All-Star invitation and the William M. Jennings Trophy after compiling a 17-1 record as a starter and a career-best .922 save percentage. He also won his first and only Stanley Cup that summer after Chicago toppled the Boston Bruins in six games.

The veteran goalie was reported missing Sunday morning after he’d gone swimming in Hamilton Harbour on Lake Ontario. Rescue workers began their search soon after, but did not recover Emery’s body until the afternoon.

“At this time we do not believe there to be any suspicious or foul play,” Insp. Marty Schulenberg of the Hamilton Police Service told the Hamilton Spectator. “We do believe this is a case of misadventure. ... Mr. Emery had gone for a swim and did not surface after he dove in the water,” said Schulenberg. “All of the events leading up to him diving in are still part of our investigation.”

Former players and coaches mourned Emery online

Former teammates, executives, and other pro hockey fixtures paid their respects Sunday.

The NHLPA’s players and staff send our heartfelt condolences to Ray Emery’s family and friends, following the terrible tragedy that occurred earlier today. Ray will be missed by his many friends within the hockey community.

— NHLPA (@NHLPA) July 15, 2018

So sad to hear the tragic news about Ray Emery- was a great teammate and person #rip

— James van Riemsdyk (@JVReemer21) July 15, 2018

The Chicago Blackhawks organization was deeply saddened to hear of Ray Emery’s passing. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. The Blackhawks will fondly remember Ray as a fierce competitor, a good teammate and a Stanley Cup champion. pic.twitter.com/Q2gm0gG6sZ

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) July 15, 2018

Outside of condolences to family and friends, I wasn’t sure what else to say about the tragic passing of Ray Emery. Then I saw @M_Nichol tribute to his friend and this is what we need to hear/read about Ray. So sorry for your loss, Matt. Your words will mean a lot to many. https://t.co/yaqBd3mCoD

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) July 16, 2018

So many great memories playing with Ray Emery! Can’t believe he’s gone so soon! #RIPRAZOR

— Mike Fisher (@mikefisher1212) July 16, 2018

Statement from #NHLDucks Executive Vice President & General Manager Bob Murray:

“We are all deeply saddened by the loss of Ray Emery. When he joined us in 2011, Ray made an immediate impact on our team with his inspiring comeback from a debilitating injury... pic.twitter.com/oCmC8IOjMx

— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) July 16, 2018

The KHL sends condolences to family and friends of the former Atlant Moscow region goalie Ray Emery, who passed away in Hamilton, Ontario, on Sunday. pic.twitter.com/gHysoioKOf

— KHL (@khl_eng) July 16, 2018

I will always remember Ray as a good person first & foremost. I envied his demeanor. He had a contagious personality. People were drawn to him. I made close friendships bc of him @DaveBolland I will never forget his selflessness. Man this hurts. Rest easy Uncle Ray Ray pic.twitter.com/hWsl9SNVwE

— Daniel Carcillo (@CarBombBoom13) July 15, 2018

The Tootoo family is very sadden to hear the news on the passing of Ray Emery today. Our condolences go out to his family and friends. #RIPrazor

— Jordin Tootoo (@Jtootoo22) July 15, 2018

— Brandon Bollig (@Bollig87) July 15, 2018

Dope article from sbnation.com