Anyone growing up a hockey fan in the 1960’s and 1970’s will remember the name.
Gordie Howe.
Mr Hockey passed this morning at the age of 88.
Mr. Howe had been in declining health and suffered a stroke in 2014 but had rebounded following stem cell therapy.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman made the following statement today.
“All hockey fans grieve the loss of the incomparable Gordie Howe. “A remarkable athlete whose mastery of our sport was reflected by the longevity of his career and by his nickname, ‘Mr. Hockey,’ Gordie’s commitment to winning was matched only by his commitment to his teammates, to his friends, to the Red Wings, to the city of Detroit and – above all – to his family. His devotion to Colleen through her illness and the fact that he extended his playing days into a fifth decade so he could play with his sons are only two examples of that true priority in his life. “Gordie’s greatness travels far beyond mere statistics; it echoes in the words of veneration spoken by countless players who joined him in the Hockey Hall of Fame and considered him their hero. “Gordie’s toughness as a competitor on the ice was equaled only by his humor and humility away from it. No sport could have hoped for a greater, more-beloved ambassador. “On behalf of the generations who were thrilled by his play and those who only know of his legend, and on behalf of all the young people and teammates he inspired, we send heartfelt wishes of condolence, comfort and strength to the Howe family and to all who mourn the passing of this treasured icon of our game.”
Mr Howe won four Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings and played 25 years for the Wings. He later spent time with several other clubs including the Houston Aeros, and Hartford Whalers.
A Floral, Saskatchewan native, Mr Howe played until he was 52 and retired for a second time in 1980.
He did ice for one shift in 1997 for the Detroit Vipers of the International League.
The Gordie Howe hat trick will live on of course.
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