Former Blues defenseman Rik Wilson has died

Former St. Louis Blues defenseman Rik Wilson has died at age 53.

“The St. Louis Blues and the Blues Alumni organization are deeply saddened by the passing of Rik Wilson,” the Blues said in a statement. “Rik donned the Blue Note with pride and passion during five of his six NHL seasons. He was a valued member of not only the Blues organization but the St. Louis community, where Rik and his family settled following his retirement. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Wilson family during this difficult time.”

“Our prayers and thoughts are with the Wilson family with the passing of Blues Alumni Rik Wilson,” the Blues Alumni group wrote in a post on Twitter.

The 12th overall pick in the 1980 NHL draft by the Blues, the Long Beach, Calif., native played with the Blues from 1981-86 and also had stints with the Calgary Flames and Chicago Blackhawks before retiring.

Wilson had 21 goals and 81 points in 235 career games with the Blues, including four assists in 22 playoff contests.

In 251 NHL games, Wilson had 25 goals, 90 points and 220 penalty minutes. Wilson also played roller hockey with the St. Louis Vipers and was active in the St. Louis youth hockey community.

This story was originally published January 22, 2016 at 4:11 PM with the headline "Former Blues defenseman Rik Wilson has died."