The family of Claude Lemieux, the former Montreal Canadiens forward and NHL great who died by suicide in Florida last week, has announced that his brain will be donated for research into Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). The decision was made public by his son, former NHL player Brendan Lemieux, through a statement posted on social media.
Donation to the UNITE Brain Bank
According to the statement, Lemieux's brain will be donated to the UNITE Brain Bank at the Boston University CTE Center. The family has authorized the CTE Center to publicly identify Claude Lemieux in connection with his donation and any research findings, in accordance with their protocols. The statement emphasized that this decision is a gift to science, to athletes, and to future generations, and that no conclusions should be drawn at this time regarding any diagnosis.
Family's tribute and hopes for research
In the statement, the family described Claude as one of hockey's most unforgettable competitors. They noted that he dedicated his post-playing career to helping the next generation, and they hope that by allowing his name to be linked to this research, his life can contribute to greater understanding and better protection for athletes and families.
Details of Claude Lemieux's death
Lemieux died by suicide on Thursday morning in Florida. He was found at the family furniture business by his adult son around 3 a.m. after family members became concerned when he did not return home. The Palm Beach County sheriff's office confirmed the cause of death. Lemieux and his wife reportedly owned a business in Lake Park, Florida, about 130 kilometers north of Miami.
A storied NHL career
Lemieux, known for his feisty and abrasive style, was 60 years old. He won the Stanley Cup four times: with the Montreal Canadiens in 1986, the New Jersey Devils in 1995 and 2000, and the Colorado Avalanche in 1996. During the 1996 playoffs, he earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP when the Avalanche swept the Florida Panthers. He was drafted 26th overall by the Canadiens in 1983 and made his NHL debut on October 13, 1983, against the Boston Bruins. Over 21 seasons, he also played for the Phoenix Coyotes, Dallas Stars, and San Jose Sharks, finishing his regular-season career with 379 goals and 786 points. In 234 playoff games, he scored 80 goals and 158 points.
Post-retirement and final public appearance
After retiring, Lemieux became a player agent, representing clients such as Frederik Andersen, Rasmus Andersson, Moritz Seider, and Timo Meier. Just days before his death, on May 25, 2026, he carried the torch for the Canadiens before Game 3 of the Eastern Conference final against the Carolina Hurricanes. His family expressed their grief and emphasized the importance of the brain donation for future research.
Lemieux is survived by his wife, Deborah, and their four children.
