Maverik Center GM and Utah Grizzlies President Kevin Bruder, 56, Passes Away

Kevin Bruder, general manager of the Maverik Center and president and CEO of the Utah Grizzlies, suddenly died on May 11, aged 56, according to the team.

“Kevin passed away on Sunday, May 11, at the age of 56, while enjoying the Utah outdoors,” the Utah Grizzles shared in a statement. “Kevin’s greatest joy was his family, and he is survived by Susan and their four beloved children: Allison, Emily, Joel, and Christopher.”

Bruder and his family moved to Utah in 1997 to open the Maverik Center, the 12,500-capacity home of ECHL Utah Grizzlies and Salt Lake City Stars G-League basketball team. He held the position of general manager for nearly three decades, and in 2005 was named president and CEO of the Utah Grizzlies. In 2021 he was named by his peers as chairman of the ECHL board of governors.

“Kevin Bruder’s legacy is one of leadership, generosity, and service,” the team’s statement continues. “He leaves behind a community that was stronger because of him, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing or working alongside him.”

Bruder in a recent interview with VenuesNow spoke of the privilege of being part of the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games, where the arena hosted events including ice skating. He was looking forward to the 2034 Games, which were announced to be taking place in the city once more.

“The 2002 Games were unbelievable,” said Bruder. “I never thought I’d potentially get a chance for two Olympic games, so we’re on slate as a hopeful 2034 Olympic venue as well.”