Alvin Libin dies at 95 after shaping Calgary Flames ownership
alvin libin, the Calgary Flames co-owner who helped guide the growth of Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation, died at 95. The Flames announced his death on Monday and did not give a cause.
Libin and CSEC growth
Libin joined the Flames ownership group in 1994 and became part of an expansion that brought the CFL’s Stampeders, the WHL’s Hitmen and the National Lacrosse League’s Roughnecks under the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation umbrella. During his co-ownership, the AHL’s Wranglers also relocated to Calgary, and construction began on a new event centre to replace the 43-year-old Saddledome.
That stretch turned Libin from an owner into a central figure in how Calgary’s sports business was built. His reach went beyond one team, with the organization widening into multiple leagues while a major arena project also moved ahead under the same ownership structure.
Order of Canada and Alberta
Born in Calgary in 1931, Libin built a career in the corporate sector that stretched from real estate to oil and gas and financial services. He also served as a director on several corporate and community boards, and the University of Calgary awarded him an Honorary Laws degree.
His public recognition followed. Libin was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2001 and was inducted into the Alberta Order of Excellence in 2004, marking a life that moved well beyond the Flames boardroom.
Edwards and Hayes tributes
N. Murray Edwards, chairman of the CSEC board, said, “Alvin was a great partner and friend to all owners over the years.” He added, “His passion for the Calgary Flames and the other CSEC teams was second to none.”
Robert Hayes, the CSEC president, said, “Alvin's vision, generosity and passion helped shape not only CSEC, but also the broader community.” Hayes also said, “He was a respected and trusted leader, a valued partner, a community philanthropist, and a friend to many.”
Libin’s death leaves the organization with the memory of an owner whose influence reached the Flames, the city’s other CSEC teams and the arena project that was underway while he remained part of the group. Edwards said, “Alvin will be missed, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Libin family.”
