The Calgary Flames are extending condolences to the family of Zarley Zalapski, a former Calgary Flames defenceman, who died Tuesday at the age of 49.

Zalapski played with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Hartford Whalers and Philadelphia Flyers before he was eventually traded to the Calgary Flames. He ended up playing for the team from 1993 to 1998.

He returned to live in Calgary after his retirement in 2010.

Ken King, President of the Calgary Flames, released the following statement on Tuesday.

"We are deeply saddened with the news of Zarley's passing. We are proud that Zarley wore the Flames jersey; made Calgary his home following his playing career; represented our alumni executive; and we will always remember him as amember of the Flames family. This is a terrible loss of a man with great character who truly loved the game of hockey. We express our sincere condolences to the Zalapski family."

The cause of death has not been released.