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Jays Owner Rogers Dead At 75

POSTED: 1:29 pm PST December 2, 2008

(Sports Network) - Toronto Blue Jays owner Ted Rogers died at his home at the age of 75.

The founder of Rogers Communications Inc., Canada's largest cable television and mobile phone company, suffered from congestive heart failure and saw his health weaken over the past few years.

Rogers Communications owns the Blue Jays and their home at the Rogers Centre, several television stations and an array of other media properties.

"Major League Baseball is saddened by the loss of Ted Rogers, whose stewardship of the Blue Jays maintained the franchise's great tradition," said baseball commissioner Bud Selig. "Ted's spirit of philanthropy has left a tremendous legacy. On behalf of all his friends in baseball, I extend my deepest sympathy to his wife, Loretta, their children, their grandchildren and his many friends."

The company purchased the Blue Jays from Interbrew for $160 million in 2000. The club has had four winning seasons in the eight years under Rogers' ownership.

In 2004, Rogers also purchased the team's stadium, The SkyDome, which was renamed The Rogers Centre.

"We wish to express our deepest sympathy to [wife] Loretta and all of the Rogers family for this loss," said Alan Horn, Chairman of Rogers Communications and acting CEO. "Ted Rogers was one of a kind who built this company from one FM radio station into Canada's largest wireless, cable and media company. A leader also in giving to the community through his and Loretta's many philanthropic initiatives. He will be sadly missed."

With his recent health struggles, Rogers handed his duties over to Horn earlier this year. Horn will continue to serve as acting Chief Executive Officer and lead the company's office of the president.

Funeral announcements will be announced by the family.


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