George Gillett, an American businessman and sports executive known for his ownership roles in multiple professional sports teams, has died at a memory care facility in Denver, Colorado. He was 85 and had been battling Alzheimer’s disease.

Born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin, Gillett developed a passion for sports from a young age. By 1966, at age 28, he became the business manager and partner of the Miami Dolphins football team, a stake he sold two years later for $3 million. He invested part of the proceeds to acquire the Harlem Globetrotters basketball team.

In the 1980s, Gillett built a significant media empire controlling several U.S. television stations and newspapers. His involvement in sports ownership continued into the 21st century, most notably with his co-ownership of Liverpool Football Club and the Montreal Canadiens hockey team.

Gillett and business partner Tom Hicks acquired a 50% stake in Liverpool FC in March 2007, aiming to elevate the club’s success. However, their tenure was marked by internal conflicts and financial difficulties, leading to a strained relationship with then-manager Rafael Benitez. The period saw Liverpool struggling to win trophies despite achieving a second-place finish in the 2008-2009 Premier League season. Ultimately, Gillett and Hicks lost control of the club after just over three years when it was sold to Fenway Sports Group to prevent financial administration.

Separately, Gillett owned the National Hockey League’s Montreal Canadiens from 2001 to 2009. His sports portfolio demonstrated a broad interest across American and international teams during his career.

Gillett is survived by his wife of 59 years, Rose, and three of their four sons: George “Geordie” III, Alexander, and Foster. Their fourth son, Andrew, predeceased him. Liverpool Football Club released a statement offering condolences to Gillett’s family and friends.