Minnesota Hockey Legend Dies

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Former Minnesota North Stars and University of Minnesota hockey coach Glen Sonmor has died. He was 86.

Ex-North Stars general manager Lou Nanne says Sonmor died Monday at a nursing home in Ontario after battling Alzheimer's disease. Nanne says he learned of Sonmor's death from Sonmor's sister, Jean.

Nanne tells The Associated Press that Sonmor was "very charismatic, very energetic" and "loved the sport of hockey as much as anybody."

A native of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Sonmor coached the Minnesota Gophers from 1966-71, compiling a record of 77-80-6. He was named WCHA Coach of the Year after Minnesota won the regular-season title in 1970.

Sonmor coached the Minnesota Fighting Saints before becoming the North Stars' coach in 1979. He led the North Stars to the Stanley Cup Final in 1981.