Tom Hicks, Ex-Owner of Stars and Rangers, Passes Away at 79
Tom Hicks, the renowned Texas businessman and philanthropist, has passed away at the age of 79. He died peacefully in Dallas on a Saturday, surrounded by his family, according to his spokesperson, Lisa LeMaster.
Legacy in Professional Sports
Hicks made a significant impact on the sports world through his ownership of two major franchises. He led the NHL’s Dallas Stars from 1995 until 2011, guiding the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 1999. Additionally, Hicks owned the Texas Rangers from 1998 to 2010, during which the team clinched three American West Division titles and made an appearance in the World Series.
International Ventures
In 2007, Hicks expanded his horizons by acquiring a 50% stake in Liverpool FC, one of the most renowned teams in the English Premier League. His business acumen was widely recognized by his peers. Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, expressed deep personal sentiments about Hicks, stating, “It was about personal respect, trust and friendship.”
Business Innovations
Hicks co-founded Hicks & Haas in 1984 and later established Hicks, Muse, Tate & Furst in 1989. His work in private equity significantly influenced investment strategies within the industry. Fellow businessman Ross Perot Jr. remarked that Hicks was an “innovative businessman and a pioneer” who effectively intertwined his passion for business and sports.
Service and Commitment
In addition to his business accomplishments, Hicks served as a paratrooper in the Army Reserves. He was also Commissioner of the American Battle Monuments Commission. From 1994 to 1999, he was a member of the University of Texas’s Board of Regents.
Family and Personal Life
Hicks is survived by his wife, Cinda Cree Hicks, and their six children: Thomas Ollis Hicks Jr., Mack Hardin Hicks, John Alexander Hicks, Robert Bradley Hicks, William Cree Hicks, and Catherine Forgrave Hicks. In a heartfelt statement, his children shared, “Tom Hicks’s most cherished title was, ‘Dad.’ He was constant in his generosity and love for family and remains a guiding force for us.”
As the community mourns, Hicks’s legacy will continue to inspire both sports enthusiasts and business professionals alike.
