Belak’s sudden death remains a mystery, as police and investigators are still trying to determine how the former NHLer died. His body was found at One King West in downtown Toronto.
Within weeks, he was set to debut on the Canadian reality TV show Battle of the Blades.
Belak retired in April after a foot injury sidelined him for several games in the 2010 season. In 549 career games he scored eight goals and added 25 assists, while tallying 1,263 penalty minutes, TSN reports. He played for Toronto, Calgary, Nashville, Florida and Colorado. Belak was known more as a tough enforcer than a finesse puck-handler.
The Nashville Predators posted a statement on their website about Belak’s death: “[We are] shocked and saddened by the sudden and untimely passing of Wade Belak. Wade was a beloved member of the organization, a terrific teammate and wonderful father and husband. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Jennifer and children Andie and Alex. We offer our full support to them at this very difficult time.”
Belak, born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in Canada, leaves behind his wife Jennifer Jordan Russell and their two children Andie Marie, 7, and Alex Grace, 5.
