Marek Svatoš passed away

Former Slovak forward Marek Svatoš passed away at 34 in his house at Lone Tree, near Denver, last Saturday. He survived by his American wife Diana whom he married in 2008, and two children. According to some sources the death was linked to "drug overdose" but site eurolanche.com, the first media to report the news, said the cause "was an accident", citing a family-related source.

Marek Svatos, from Kosice, was drafted by Colorado Avalanche in 2001 after a stellar season with Kootenay Ice in WHL, ended with the victory of Memorial Cup, including the top scorer title, along with Mike Cammalleri, at WJC U20 with Slovakia. From 2005 to 2009 he played his best seasons in NHL, before the injuries stopped his rise. In 2010-11 Svatos started season at Avangard Omsk in KHL, before to come back overseas, playing his last season in NHL with Nashville and Ottawa. After the 2011-12 season enterely missed due to injury, Svatos played again in KHL for Slovan and closed active career in his former team Kosice, winning the title of Extraliga. He closed his career with 344 games and 172 points in NHL and 63 games with Slovakia national team, including the Olympics in Turin 2006.

"We are sad for the tragic loss of one of the members of our hockey family. I personally played with Marek at the 2010 World Championship, when together led a young team, with Tatar and Panik against star like Ovechkin. I remember Marek as quieter and cheerful man, very hardworking" said Tipsport league Manager and former teammate Richard Lintner.

"Our entire hockey community and me personally are devastated for this incredible sad news" - said HC Košice GM Juraj Bakos - "We wish to express sincere condolences to the family, Marek will remain forever in our hearts."

Also Colorado Avalanche Executive Vice President/General Manager Joe Sakic, who was Svatos teammate, released the following statement. "The entire Avalanche organization is extremely saddened by this news. Marek was a tremendous person, a talented hockey player and a great teammate. Our thoughts, prayers and our deepest sympathy to his wife, children and his entire family."