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Seattle Kraken co-owner, founder David Bonderman dies at 82
David Bonderman, a founding owner of the Seattle Kraken who helped bring the NHL's 32nd franchise to Seattle, has died at age 82.
SEATTLE - David Bonderman, a founding owner of the Seattle Kraken who helped bring the NHL's 32nd franchise to Seattle, has died at age 82.
The Kraken released a statement Wednesday on behalf of the franchise, the Bonderman family, TPG and Wildcat Capital Management:
"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Bonderman, the co-founder of global alternative asset management firm, TPG, and owner of the NHL’s 32nd franchise, the Seattle Kraken. David died Wednesday at the age of 82, surrounded by his family.
Bondo,' as he was known to friends and colleagues, leaves behind a legacy marked by brilliance at every stage of his illustrious career combined with a relentless quest for knowledge and a passion for music, sports, adventure, and conservation. David was a true friend to many and, above all else, a devoted father of five and grandfather of three."
Bonderman was born in 1942 in Los Angeles. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1963, developing a love for Seattle before attending Harvard Law School.
Bonderman is the co-founder of global alternative asset management firm TPG.
He is known in the community for being a passionate advocate for a range of causes, including education and health, and was a member of several boards, including The Wilderness Society, World Wildlife Fund, American Himalayan Foundation and the Grand Canyon Trust.
On Dec. 4, 2018, the NHL awarded an expansion hockey franchise to an ownership group led by Bonderman in Seattle.
NHL Seattle franchise majority owner David Bonderman addresses the media during the NHL Board of Governors Meeting on December 4, 2018 in Sea Island, Georgia. (Patrick McDermott/NHLI via Getty Images)
Bonderman also helped oversee the massive renovation of Seattle's KeyArena, now known as Climate Pledge Arena. The Kraken also built a practice facility called the Kraken Community Iceplex at Northgate.
The Kraken took to the ice for their first regular-season game just a few years later on Oct. 12, 2021. With the first home game following on Oct. 23. The Kraken are now in their fourth season.
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