Schenk had reportedly been suffering from heart problems during the past three years and previously had surgery in 2017.

He represented SC Langnau as a player for 16 years in the Swiss Championship and helped the club claim their only title in 1976.

Schenk also played for the Swiss national team in 30 international matches during his career.

This included competing in the World Championship B-Pool tournaments in both 1977 and 1978.

Following his retirement from playing, Schenk began a coaching career.

He became Swiss national team coach in 1985 and led the team to promotion to the top World Championship division in 1986 and 1990.

Schenk led Switzerland at the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics as the country finished fourth in their six-team group.

After five years in charge Schenk left the role, but returned in 1995 for a further two seasons and led Switzerland to promotion again in 1997.

Switzerland have remained in the top division of the World Championships since.

"We are shocked and deeply affected by the news of Simon Schenk's death and extend our deepest condolences to the family and all relatives," Michael Rindlisbacher, chairman of Swiss Ice Hockey Board, said.

"With Simon Schenk, the ice hockey family loses a formative figure and a member who performs incredibly well in his life for Swiss ice hockey."

Schenk was also active politically, serving as a member of the National Council between 1994 and 2011.