The Swede served as the International Federation's general secretary from 1986 to 2006.

Edvinsson is credited with transforming the governing body since he joined.

From two employees including himself in 1986, the Swede played a crucial role as IIHF expanded from 34 National Federations to 64 in 2006.

Edvinsson also developed the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship programme from six tournaments when he started to 29 championships upon his retirement.

IIHF President Luc Tardif paid tribute to Edvinsson after his death.

"It is with immense sadness and regret that we have learned of the passing of Jan-Ake Edvinsson, a true hockey executive, a valuable and impressive representative of the Swedish Ice Hockey Association and the IIHF," said Tardif.

"With the passing, we lose a wonderful member of the whole ice hockey family.

"He granted our deepest respect in always being professional, positive, motivated, and caring for the IIHF family.

"All of us are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our thoughts are with his family and friends."

Edvinsson also served as the finance manager of the Swedish Ice Hockey Association in 1972 and became the National Federation's general secretary in 1976.

In 2013, the Swede was inducted as a builder into the IIHF Hall of Fame.

He has worked under two IIHF Presidents - Gunther Sabetzki and Rene Fasel - and was the longest-serving general secretary.

Post retirement, Edvinsson served as a technical delegate at the Winter Olympics and was the directorate chairperson at IIHF tournaments until a few years ago.