Detroit Politicians Speak Out On The Loss Of Mike Ilitch

BIRMINGHAM, MI — Detroit politicians have spoken out mourning the loss of Detroit legend Mike Ilitch, who passed away at the age of 87 on Feb. 10.

In a statement, U.S. Representative Dave Trott (MI-11) spoke glowingly of Ilitch, "Michigan mourns the loss of one of the greatest Detroiters of our time, a true icon, Mike Ilitch. From humble beginnings, he was the embodiment of the American dream becoming an unparalleled businessman and entrepreneur. As someone who believed in the Comeback City when so few others did, he never lost faith in the resilience and resurgence of the city and people that made him. Having poured his heart and passion into the rebuilding of the city he loved so much, Mike Illitch is someone who brought immense pride to the great city of Detroit."

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said in a statement, "Mike Ilitch was more than just a shrewd, successful businessman. He was a Detroiter through-and-through. Whether he was making pizza, building successful sports and entertainment franchises or supporting youth organizations in our city, "Mr. I" helped to bring thousands of jobs and opportunities to our city and attract millions of dollars of investment.

More than all of this, he was a family man. I know how Mike Ilitch adored his family and how his family adores him. My heart goes out to Marian, their children and the entire Ilitch family at this difficult time."

And in Dearborn, U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) released the following statement, "Mike Ilitch was a giant for Detroit and Southeast Michigan who spent his life nurturing and giving back to the city and state he loved. His drive and vision - and passion for sports - helped contribute to the revival of downtown Detroit, helped make us the pizza capital of the world, and brought us four Stanley Cups and two trips to the World Series. Through it all, Mike never lost touch. He was a real guy, and as much as he loved Detroit, his true love was his wife Marian and their seven children. John and I were honored to call Mike a friend, and our prayers are with Marian and the family."

Ilitch passed away at the age of 87 leaving behind his wife and seven children. Ilitch had a vibrant life. The son of Macedonian immigrants, in his early life he was a U.S. Marine and played baseball for the Detroit Tigers. After an injury ended his baseball career, Ilitch and his wife, Marian, opened a pizza shop called Little Caesars in 1959. The shop exploded into the Little Caesars pizza chain, propelling Ilitch to billionaire status. Ilitch also was the owner of the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and the Fox Theatre. He passionately loved the Comeback City, and was heralded for his philanthropic efforts, including leading causes to benefit children and veterans.

Photo by Dave Hogg via Flickr