12/11/2024

The Seattle Kraken announced Wednesday their founding owner David Bonderman passed away at the age of 82. Those who knew him well referred to him as “Bondo”. Bonderman’s passion in the industries of music and sports were several of the many imprints he made in the world. David leaves behind five children and three grandchildren.

A proud University of Washington Alum, Bonderman was one of the cofounders of the private equity firm TPG in 1992. TGP said in light of his passing, “His eye for detail, keen interest in people, ability to learn quickly and adapt, and even his love for music, travel, and fun are the foundation of TPG”.

Bonderman graduated magna cum laude from Harvard in 1966. In 1969, Bonderman worked as the special assistant to the US Attorney General during the Lyndon Johnson administration.

Bonderman went on to to join Arnold and Palmer law firm in Washington, where he represented Raymond Dirks in a case that made the US Supreme Court. The case is known as a major case in insider trading history.

A proud supporter of his alum University of Washington. Bonderman approached the NHL Board of Governors and in 2018, gained approval for a National Hockey League Franchise in Seattle for the 2021 season.

Said in a statement by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, “Adding David to the Board and the Seattle franchise to the NHL made our League and our game stronger, setting new standards in environmental responsibility and diversity and inclusion”.

ESN sends our thoughts and prayers to the Bonderman family and loved ones.

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