Former Flyers head coach Pat Quinn dies at 71

A coaching legend who began his career with the Flyers is gone. Former Flyers head coach Pat Quinn passed away on Sunday night at the age of 71 after battling a long illness.

Quinn served as an assistant coach with the Flyers starting in 1977 under the guidance of Fred Shero.

Quinn took over the reigns as head coach in 1979-80. That season, the Flyers went undefeated for 35 straight games and made a trip to the Stanley Cup Final, losing to the New York Islanders. That season, Quinn was also named the Jack Adams Award winner as coach of the year.

Quinn remained with the Flyers for two more seasons before being replaced following the 1981-82 season.

His coaching career continued for decades as he served as head coach for Los Angeles, Vancouver, Toronto and Edmonton over his 31-year coaching career.

He also served as the head coach of the 2002 Canadian Olympic team, winning a gold medal.

In recent years, Quinn held a place on the Hockey Hall of Fame's Selection Committee, and became the Chairman of the Board in 2013.

Quinn also returned to Philadelphia in 2012 to coach the Flyers alumni team in at the 2012 Winter Classic.

During his time with the Flyers, Quinn had a 141-73-48 record. Quinn was a two-time Jack Adams Award winner and posted a career 684-528-154-34 record.

“Whether he was playing for a team, coaching a team or building one, Pat Quinn was thoughtful, passionate and committed to success. Pat’s contributions to hockey, at every level, reflected the skills he possessed and the great respect with which he treated the sport,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. “The National Hockey League, one of the many organizations to benefit from his devoted service, sends heartfelt condolences to Pat’s loved ones and his many friends around the hockey world.”

Kevin Durso is managing editor for Flyerdelphia. Follow him on Twitter @KDursoPhilsNet.