Blues honor Mike Shanahan, share fond memories of former chairman

TORONTO - Blues players will wear an "MFS" decal on their helmets in honor of former Blues chairman Michael F. Shanahan, who passed away on Monday at age 78.
Shanahan led an investment group that purchased the Blues from Harry Ornest in 1986. Shanahan served as the team's chairman in the late 1980's through the early 1990's.

"The St. Louis Blues organization is saddened to learn of the passing of former Blues chairman Mike Shanahan," Blues chairman Tom Stillman said in a statement on Monday. "Mr. Shanahan set a shining example of leadership both on and off the ice. He captivated Blues fans and made an immeasurable impact on the organization. He will forever be remembered for his passion for the Blues, his engaging personality, and his acquisition of Brett Hull. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Shanahan family, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time."

Soon after news of Shanahan's passing spread, several members of the Blues organization shared fond memories and their condolences. Here are some of those comments:
Brett Hull:"Mr. Shanahan was a very special man. I looked up to and respected Mr. Shanahan in all aspects of life. He made people better and I know I am better having known him!! God bless you and the entire Shanahan family."
Al MacInnis: "Mr. Shanahan brought me to St Louis and I will forever be grateful to him. We have made St. Louis our home and raised our kids here all because of his approval. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Shanahan family at this time."

Bernie Federko:"This is a sad day for St. Louis hockey. Mr. Shanahan had that incredible personality that touched everyone he ever met. It was under his ownership that the St. Louis Blues reconnected with all our great fans. I feel blessed that I had the chance to call him a friend and to play under his leadership. He will dearly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Shanahan family.
Bob Plager: "I am very fortunate to have been a part of the St. Louis Blues since Day 1. When I look back on all these years of the great players, great owners and great fans, one of them stands out and that is Mike Shanahan. He was probably one of the best owners and best friends that I've had with the Blues. Mike is probably best known for being chairman of the Blues but he also did so much for city of St. Louis. For the next few days, we all will be telling Mike Shanahan stories and there are lots of great stories. My favorite story about Mike is the day he took over the Blues. He took the team over from Harry Ornest. In those days, Ron Caron, myself and Ted Hampson, our job then was to run the Blues and not spend money. In that first meeting with Mike he asked who was the best free agent that could help the Blues no matter the cost. We said there was a goaltender out there but he will be too expensive... Mike said get him ... His name was Curtis Joseph."