I was fortunate to have grown up in Detroit and had grandparents who lived 2 blocks from the Olympia which made it easy to attend many Sunday night games in the 50's and early 60's. After every game, I got autographs of Wings and visiting players (it was much easier in those days). On many occasions I got Gordie's autograph, regardless of how many I ready I had. He was always friendly and willing to sign until he signed the last one. Also, he left the game on the ice which some didn't. Many years later in the 90's, my mom had the opportunity to chat with Colleen and Gordie at an event, for sometime. Obviously, mom mentioned I was a long time fan and Gordie personalized a picture which I cherish it to this day. She said, talking with the Howes' was like talking with neighbors. He was a great ambassador for hockey and sports in general.
2
Well, I will tell one more story about the tournament, just can't help it, so please bear with an old man (Age Card-you bet-comes in handy) one more time.
This tournament was attended by all skill levels form youngsters who were fast skaters and hard shooters to my friend the"Doc", a 64 year old surgeon, who could barely stand up on skates.
He loved hockey passionately and could not resist this chance to get on the ice with pro's he idolized. Today, we would call that a "Bucket List" item.
Whenever he gained our zone, no easy task for him, Gordie would get control of the puck and make a "bad" clearing pass which somehow always managed to land dead center on the Doc's stick tape.
As a result,the Doc got several shots, one of which resulted in a goal!
Doc was just delighted, you know who was the first to give him a high-five?
Gordie Howe the opposition defense-man.
Bet the Doc told the tale of how he scored against Howe defending as many times as the rib hooking youngster told his.
This tournament was attended by all skill levels form youngsters who were fast skaters and hard shooters to my friend the"Doc", a 64 year old surgeon, who could barely stand up on skates.
He loved hockey passionately and could not resist this chance to get on the ice with pro's he idolized. Today, we would call that a "Bucket List" item.
Whenever he gained our zone, no easy task for him, Gordie would get control of the puck and make a "bad" clearing pass which somehow always managed to land dead center on the Doc's stick tape.
As a result,the Doc got several shots, one of which resulted in a goal!
Doc was just delighted, you know who was the first to give him a high-five?
Gordie Howe the opposition defense-man.
Bet the Doc told the tale of how he scored against Howe defending as many times as the rib hooking youngster told his.
2
Another legend of sports past, and remembered. Memories of playing hockey on a frozen river north of Detroit as a kid, I always entertained the fantasy of playing at the Olympia with the Wings. Detroit hockey owes you an enormous debt, Mr. Howe. The least we can do is not name the new area Little Ceasars Arena, but rather Gordie Howe Arena.
3
Good idea, Ethan. At least, though, the new bridge between Detroit and Windsor will be named after him.
2
The ultimate hockey player. Physically tough, a great stick handler, and willing to do anything on the ice to win.
3
Gordie explained that he didn't wear a helmet because he didn't feel comfortable doing so.
When a reporter pointed out that an athletic cup wasn't very comfortable, but Gordie had become used to wearing one, Gordie responded:
"Yeah, but you can always pay somebody to think for you."
When a reporter pointed out that an athletic cup wasn't very comfortable, but Gordie had become used to wearing one, Gordie responded:
"Yeah, but you can always pay somebody to think for you."
6
What a contrast.
The best (I would rank him and Orr at the top of their sport) dies, and his life is covered only in the sport section of the NYT, while Ali is given front page coverage and a special spots section.
My fear is that younger sport's fans might confuse substance with hype, and believe that Ali was on the same level as the great Black heavyweight champions, Jack Johnson and Joe Louis.
No matter Gordie we will miss you. Go in peace.
The best (I would rank him and Orr at the top of their sport) dies, and his life is covered only in the sport section of the NYT, while Ali is given front page coverage and a special spots section.
My fear is that younger sport's fans might confuse substance with hype, and believe that Ali was on the same level as the great Black heavyweight champions, Jack Johnson and Joe Louis.
No matter Gordie we will miss you. Go in peace.
2
Gordie Howe was a Canadian. That is the difference.
1
He will always be the greatest hockey player of all time.
5
Mr. Howe played until he was 52. Read that again; the man played a sport at the pro level into his 50s. That's all you really need to know of his skill and prowess.
4
Gordie Howe was a hero and a role model.
3
I saw Gordie hit a home run at the old Tiger Stadium. It was a charity game of some sort with lots of famous Detroit atheletes. Gordie hit a shot down the left field line. Not many hockey players can do thet, eh?
3
340 ft down the left field line, if I remember correctly. Too bad that Miguel Cabrera didn't have the chance to play there. I still miss the old ballpark.
At some point, Gordie Howe and Al Kaline had to have met each other. I can't find anything on that. Does anybody know?
At some point, Gordie Howe and Al Kaline had to have met each other. I can't find anything on that. Does anybody know?
1
I finally found something. Gordie Howe and Al Kaline, were, in fact, good buddies!
http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nhl/red-wings/2016/06/10/al-kaline-gor...
http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nhl/red-wings/2016/06/10/al-kaline-gor...
I used to play a little basketball and baseball. I always tried to get either number 6 or 9. Of course, there was a lot of competition for those numbers.
Many years ago,I played as Howe's defense partner in a Pro-Amateur series that mimicked the Stanley Cup.
One very strong and able young player-early 20s- repeatedly hooked Gordie-late 50s- in the ribs.
Gordie said "Please don't do that, hook around my waist if you must. I have an old rib injury."
Well, the kid did it again.
Shortly thereafter, they went into the corner together. When Gordie skated away, the kid was out cold on the ice!
No messing with Gordie-even in a Pro-Am game!
The youngster survived just fine; and I am sure had a great story to tell forever after.
Howe defined all the best traits of a true professional athlete.
A power on the ice and a fine gent off-just the best.
Godspeed Gordie; all hockey misses you.
One very strong and able young player-early 20s- repeatedly hooked Gordie-late 50s- in the ribs.
Gordie said "Please don't do that, hook around my waist if you must. I have an old rib injury."
Well, the kid did it again.
Shortly thereafter, they went into the corner together. When Gordie skated away, the kid was out cold on the ice!
No messing with Gordie-even in a Pro-Am game!
The youngster survived just fine; and I am sure had a great story to tell forever after.
Howe defined all the best traits of a true professional athlete.
A power on the ice and a fine gent off-just the best.
Godspeed Gordie; all hockey misses you.
6
What a contrast!
The hype surrounding the "greatest" , and the headline for Gordie that he glowed with modesty.
Gordie's place in his sport ( I would put him equal to Orr) is light year's ahead of Ali as a heavyweight. My concern is that with all the hype for the latter younger sport fans might think he is the equal of the two great Black heavyweight champions who precede him. Jack Johnson and Joe Louis.
Gordie did all his self promotion by playing the game. What a pity others could not do the same.
We will miss you Mr. Howe.
The hype surrounding the "greatest" , and the headline for Gordie that he glowed with modesty.
Gordie's place in his sport ( I would put him equal to Orr) is light year's ahead of Ali as a heavyweight. My concern is that with all the hype for the latter younger sport fans might think he is the equal of the two great Black heavyweight champions who precede him. Jack Johnson and Joe Louis.
Gordie did all his self promotion by playing the game. What a pity others could not do the same.
We will miss you Mr. Howe.
2
Tough player, good guy. One of the world's best hockey players.
1
Ted (Teeter) Kennedy played center for the Toronto Maple Leafs, not wingman, and was their long time team captain. Strange that two iconic sports figures should leave us within days of each other. I admired both of them, but I feel Howe was more dominant in hockey than Ali in boxing. To me, Joe Louis was the ultimate heavyweight champ. When Ali came along, African Americans were already well established in major sports. Remember Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Jim Brown, and Bill Russell.
3
Having grown up in small town Canada while Gordie Howe was in his fearsome heyday and a hero to a legion of young Canadian snot-noses like me, I idolized Howe even though I was not a Red Wings fan. Courtesy characterizes these small Canadian towns -- off the ice, at least. On the ice, maybe not so much.
No tribute to Gordie Howe can be too eloquent. Like Bobby Orr, he was one of the best, on and off the ice. Like Ali, his face lit up whenever in the presence of children. Human to the core, sporting a humanity that included his fierce competitiveness and his compassionate grace.
http://www.endthemadnessnow.org
No tribute to Gordie Howe can be too eloquent. Like Bobby Orr, he was one of the best, on and off the ice. Like Ali, his face lit up whenever in the presence of children. Human to the core, sporting a humanity that included his fierce competitiveness and his compassionate grace.
http://www.endthemadnessnow.org
4
One thing casual fans should understand in trying to compare Gordie Howe's stats to players who came later. He played most of his career during the Original Six years. Scoring was way down, no players regularly tallied 50 goals or 100 points. When the NHL expanded they didn't go from six to seven or eight teams, they doubled overnight to 12 teams. This was before all the players were coming over from Europe or Russia. The talent in the league was severely diluted and all of a sudden the star players from the Original Six were scoring 60 or more goals and shattering the 100 point barrier. They should, they were playing against backup goalies and defensemen who weren't talented enough to crack the lineup for one of the Original Six teams. In fact the league for years after expansion was described as 6 NHL teams paired with 6 AHL teams.
Another anecdote- Gordie just trusted his owner and general manager and thought he was the best paid player earning 45 grand. This was before players had agents and contract terms were public knowledge. A younger player told him he wasn't the highest paid player on the team, let alone the league. He promptly went to the owner and demanded 100 grand, and got it.
Detroit papers reporting different numbers of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, 9 grand and 8 great-grandchildren.
Another anecdote- Gordie just trusted his owner and general manager and thought he was the best paid player earning 45 grand. This was before players had agents and contract terms were public knowledge. A younger player told him he wasn't the highest paid player on the team, let alone the league. He promptly went to the owner and demanded 100 grand, and got it.
Detroit papers reporting different numbers of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, 9 grand and 8 great-grandchildren.
4
The offensive line of the Detroit Red Wings in those days was appropriately known as the "Production Line", with Syd Abel at center, and Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsay at the wings. "Terrible" Ted Lindsay was another player you didn't want to mess around with. Ah, those were the days.
3
A true and deserving legend in the great game of Hockey. Will be missed.
4
as for the way gordie played hockey....he always said he was religious when he played hockey.....it was better to give than to receive....
6
Thank Gordie for years of true sportsmanship and competivness. I had the pleasure of saying hello to Gordie about 10 years ago in a local grocery store and as I was a blubbering fool as he held his poodle, he was noyhing but kind and highly amused! Growing up in Detroit, hockey was a huge thing in my life within my household and just be surrounded by the Canadian border teams and Hockey night In Canada was amazing!! Gordie was always the ambassador to me to the most aggressive and entertaining sport! RIP Mr Howe!
6
While an editor at The Montreal Gazette, I head this tale about Gordie Howe.
In a training camp game, a rookie up from the minors looking for a spot on the Wings roster, had the puck on a breakaway. As the rookie was skating along the boards at top speed, he looked down to see the blade of a hockey stick right in front of his Adam's apple. The blade was keeping perfect pace with the fast-skating rookie.
"Check out, Junior," the rookie heard No. 9 say. The rookie decided he liked his throat better than his chance at a breakaway goal, and Howe skated around him and took away the puck.
Even in camp, No. 9 always played as if it were game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals and the Wings were down one (to the Canadiens, of course). Not many left who combine his skills, his heart and his durability. Rest in peace, No. 9.
Bob Neal
New Sharon, Maine
In a training camp game, a rookie up from the minors looking for a spot on the Wings roster, had the puck on a breakaway. As the rookie was skating along the boards at top speed, he looked down to see the blade of a hockey stick right in front of his Adam's apple. The blade was keeping perfect pace with the fast-skating rookie.
"Check out, Junior," the rookie heard No. 9 say. The rookie decided he liked his throat better than his chance at a breakaway goal, and Howe skated around him and took away the puck.
Even in camp, No. 9 always played as if it were game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals and the Wings were down one (to the Canadiens, of course). Not many left who combine his skills, his heart and his durability. Rest in peace, No. 9.
Bob Neal
New Sharon, Maine
6
I heard a woman on the radio today comment that Muhammad Ali was getting an awful lot of attention. She said he was a good man, but there were plenty of other good men who didnt get that kind of attention when they died. The comment struck me as very odd. At first I thought that maybe it was a racist thing, which has become popular sport lately. She was probably just not a boxing fan, so she didn't get it. Similarly, the passing of Gordie Howe will not have the same significance for those of you who are not hockey fans. It will probably not have any significance at all. Too bad for you. He was a great man.
5
I follow hockey but not too closely. I knew Howe was good but until today I did not know how good he was. I've talked to a friend over the years about whether Orr or Gretzky was the greatest hockey player. That discussion is now over. Howe was the greatest. I regret that I did not pay more attention to this tremendous human being while he was alive.
4
His spirit will live in every hockey game ever played. My deepest sympathies to his family.
7
Gordie Howe gives me inspiration to keep skating and playing hockey.
5
Could you please edit your headline?
Gordie Howe wasn't just "Mr. Hockey for the Red Wings", he was Mr. Hockey for all of hockey.
Gordie Howe wasn't just "Mr. Hockey for the Red Wings", he was Mr. Hockey for all of hockey.
14
Good point, but the headline is limited with respect to space.
Your point is well made by the writer in a concise to-the-point sentence closing the two-sentence first paragraph:
Gordie Howe, one of the greatest and most durable players in the history of hockey, who powered his Detroit Red Wings teams to four Stanley Cup championships and was 52 years old when he finally hung up his skates, died on Friday in Ohio. Howe — Mr. Hockey to the sports world — was 88.
Your point is well made by the writer in a concise to-the-point sentence closing the two-sentence first paragraph:
Gordie Howe, one of the greatest and most durable players in the history of hockey, who powered his Detroit Red Wings teams to four Stanley Cup championships and was 52 years old when he finally hung up his skates, died on Friday in Ohio. Howe — Mr. Hockey to the sports world — was 88.
The NHL doesn't recognize the W.H.A. statistics while the N.B.A. does recognize the A.B.A. statistics. When combined both Howe and Hull, who also played to 1980, would see career goal totals over a thousand.
4
When I was five years old (1968), my uncle managed to snag tickets to a Red Wings game.Before he and I left, my mom (who loved Gordie), said, "Now if you see Gordie, be sure to tell him that I said hello.
The tickets were behind the Red Wings penalty box.Back in those days, you could touch the players.Sometime during the game, Gordie got a penalty. So there he was, sitting right in front of me, and I was staring at that huge number 9.
My uncle nudged me in my ribs and said, "Hey! Say hello to Mr. Howe!" I was like a deer in the headlights!My uncle nudged me again, "What are you waiting for?"
Finally, I tapped him on his shoulder. He turned, and with a huge smile, said, "Hey, how ya' doin' Kid? What what's your name?" I answered, and then he asked if I was enjoying the game. I said, "Yes, thank you. And my Mom says hello." He laughed and patted me on the shoulder. Then he turned around, bent over, and turned back to me. As he handed me a puck, he said, "Here's a little souvenir for you!"
Do I still have that puck? Hell yes! I can't prove that he gave it to me, but I know.
My mom is only 2 days older than he. She's still here, but, like Gordie, battles with dementia (Alzheimer's). The stem-cell treatment he received resulted in a miraculous, albeit short and somewhat limited, recovery. Still, it gave hope to the families with members who are so afflicted. While his treatment won't help her, she continues to fight.
And yes, she remembers that, through me, he said hello to her.
The tickets were behind the Red Wings penalty box.Back in those days, you could touch the players.Sometime during the game, Gordie got a penalty. So there he was, sitting right in front of me, and I was staring at that huge number 9.
My uncle nudged me in my ribs and said, "Hey! Say hello to Mr. Howe!" I was like a deer in the headlights!My uncle nudged me again, "What are you waiting for?"
Finally, I tapped him on his shoulder. He turned, and with a huge smile, said, "Hey, how ya' doin' Kid? What what's your name?" I answered, and then he asked if I was enjoying the game. I said, "Yes, thank you. And my Mom says hello." He laughed and patted me on the shoulder. Then he turned around, bent over, and turned back to me. As he handed me a puck, he said, "Here's a little souvenir for you!"
Do I still have that puck? Hell yes! I can't prove that he gave it to me, but I know.
My mom is only 2 days older than he. She's still here, but, like Gordie, battles with dementia (Alzheimer's). The stem-cell treatment he received resulted in a miraculous, albeit short and somewhat limited, recovery. Still, it gave hope to the families with members who are so afflicted. While his treatment won't help her, she continues to fight.
And yes, she remembers that, through me, he said hello to her.
22
Terrific story. Thanks for sharing it. The Detroit Free Press ran a story awhile back that recounted fans interactions with #9. You are not alone. Gordie was an extremely humble man who was the greatest ambassador the game has ever known.
1
Such a beautiful memory…… Had we instant replay back then, it would have been on tape… Take care
I once caddied for Gordie Howe at a country club in the Detroit area, back in the day when he was still playing for the Red Wings.
I remember he had trouble controlling his driver, so he used a 3 wood and his the ball off the tee farther than I had ever seen anybody hit it.
My early brush with celebrity.
Rest in Peace, Gordie, you brought us so many memorable moments.
I remember he had trouble controlling his driver, so he used a 3 wood and his the ball off the tee farther than I had ever seen anybody hit it.
My early brush with celebrity.
Rest in Peace, Gordie, you brought us so many memorable moments.
7
50 years ago I was a big fan of the Red Wings and playing roller hockey in Queens proudly sporting my Wings #9 sweater. Any time the Rangers would play the Red Wings at the old Garden (on the ice tickets for $3.50 by the way) I'd be there. One night my parents and I got to our seats early so I took my camera and snuck into the penalty box and yelled "Hey Mr. Howe" and Gordie skated over and I was so nervous I had hard time taking the picture. He was so nice and patient...he even said that his face would probably break the lens. I still have that photo. Moved to Detroit in 1979 just in time top catch the All-Star game at the JLA. When Gordie was introduced as the Whalers representative the applause blew the roof off. God bless you Mr. Howe...Mr. Hockey...My Hero!
22
You were the best. RIP Mr Hockey, you deserve it!
3
They used to say he sharpened his elbows. We used to argue who was greater while they played: Gordie or Bobby Hull. But his longevity and continued skills set him apart. He sent me a personalized autographed picture after I mailed him a fan letter when I was 10 in 1963. Decked out in his all-red Detroit uniform. My kids always had to know who was that guy in the picture.
7
I doubt there many making decisions in the front office of any nhl team that would choose hull. great scorer and exciting to watch, but as has been said by many including two others of the holy trinity of hockey and the coach with the most Stanley cups under his belt all say....howe was the best overall that ever played the game....
3
One of the greatest hockey players ever!!! Bet we do not see a celebration of his life like all the hoopla about the draft dodger Ali!!!!
3
howe's the greatest athlete in team sports in north American history. as for ali, you lost that argument-in every way possible--decades ago.
4
Tremendous man - thanks for the lessons and the memories.
2
Strike me down but when I was younger I hated him. Tough is one thing, but dirty is another. In the 70's I saw him spear a player from another team in the mid section with impunity. That other player was left unconscious on the ice. I know I could easily blame the game of hockey itself for allowing this type of behavior.
3
He's so tough that this will only keep him out for two, maybe three, games.
Thanks for so many great memories, Gordie.
Thanks for so many great memories, Gordie.
56
Love this quote, Scott. Put a tear in my eye.
4
In the 1970's, my parents had a lake house not far from Traverse City in Michigan. The Howes had a home just a few doors away. I haven't spent time with many famous people, but in my opinion Goride Howe was the most friendly famous person I ever knew. He enjoyed playing golf with my father and he and Colleen stayed in touch with my parents for many years after both families moved away from the lake. I was lucky enough to see him play with his sons in Hartford in early 1980. We had a late dinner with him after the game and he treated every person that interrupted his meal with respect and grace - most especially the kids. Our thoughts go out to the entire Howe family.
17
In a week, we lost two of the best: Muhammad Ali and Gordie Howe. Gonna be hard to replace either of them.
17
During Gordie Howe’s last season in the NHL with the Hartford Whalers I managed to get some good seats to what would be probably his last appearance in Chicago against the Blackhawks. While I was growing up in Detroit, for me Howe epitomized greatness in sports. I saw him at the old Olympia numerous times during matinee games with my father. I even saw his sons play junior hockey as they are about my age. With great anticipation I watched as the Blackhawk fans who had not seen him for nearly ten years respectfully cheered as he took the ice at over fifty years of age wondering whether he could drag himself up and down the ice, forgiving and forgetting the history of adversarial torment he had provided during his first twenty five years in the NHL. That did not last however. After he scored his second goal of the game the partisan Blackhawk crowd forgot his iconic status and was booing him as in the past. I am sure nothing else they could have done would have made him feel better. Playing with his sons at plus fifty still able to rile up hardcore hockey fans with superior play. I laughed at the singularity of the moment and became endeared to my new hometown for treating the hockey icon as both a hero and another player trying to take a win from their home team. Truly one of a kind.
15
For all those kids on all those frozen ponds...take a moment to remember Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe. You may not know him, but he was one of you.
19
As a Detroit area kid in the 60's that played hockey, I revered Gordie Howe. He will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace, Mr. Howe.
10
I remember hearing or reading an interview with Wayne Gretzky. He said that Gordie Howe was his favourite player growing up. I've always thought it was a little suspect - in my opinion, Gretzy's style more closely resembled the '72 Russians - but still - what a compliment to Howe.
3
why would it be suspect? when he was barely school age his father bought him a red wings' jersey with number 9 on it because he knew how much his son adored howe. he's made it clear ever since he became famous in Canada when his age was still single digits that howe was his hockey hero. why would somebody as obnoxious as johnny mac in tennis revere rod laver?? but he did and still does....
1
Gordie Howe is *not* "Mr. Hockey" for the Red Wings. First period. He is, and shall ever-remain, "Mr. Hockey" for everyone. Second Period. Period. Third Period.
14
Of course, Mr. Howe retired as a Hartford Whaler. Growing up outside Hartford, we idolized him. I was always jealous of my twin brother who got to meet him (twice I believe!). By all accounts he was a true gentleman, and a great athelete. A life well lived! We who BLEED GREEN hold you in our thoughts, Gordie!
2
I started watching TV hockey games in 1971. I recall that back then, the Detroit coach, Ned Harkness, had the audacity to put Gordie on the ice as a defenseman, a post he handled extremely well. I was disappointed, but nonetheless, Gordie's genius out there on the ice was evident. If only I had seen him with Alex Delvecchio a few years earlier!
Gordie was a national treasure. They just don't come along like that anymore.
Gordie was a national treasure. They just don't come along like that anymore.
11
About twenty years ago I was playing a late night ice hockey game in NJ. During the game a television crew was moving in equipment and setting up a commercial shoot. As the word got out that Gordie Howe would be coming to the rink it was the only thing we could talk about. The referees, players from both sides, we all wanted to meet him. But he was sleeping at a hotel and they weren't going to wake him up until the tv set was ready to go. A half dozen of us waited until 3am but the delays went on and on, until these men in their 30s, 40s and 50s gave up and left without seeing him. I've never since seen so many grown men so disappointed.
I'm still heartbroken that I came so close to meeting him and maybe even skating with him. I'd like to think that if Mr. Howe knew that there were a dozen fans waiting for him he would have climbed out of bed and made his way to the rink. Rest in peace, Gordie.
I'm still heartbroken that I came so close to meeting him and maybe even skating with him. I'd like to think that if Mr. Howe knew that there were a dozen fans waiting for him he would have climbed out of bed and made his way to the rink. Rest in peace, Gordie.
4
Thanks for the memories, Gordie.
5
I saw an NHL game in person in November, 1965, in The Forum in Montréal. They were playing the Red Wings, and it happened to be the game where Gordie Howe scored his 300th goal. Action was stopped to celebrate this milestone. I figured I'd never see another game more memorable or exciting. And thus that was my first and only NHL game in person. Thanks for making it such a great game, Gordie - that one game and all the rest you played in. You were a class act.
9
sentiments are right, but your timeline is wrong or you made a typo. he scored his 300th goal in 1956
1
So long MR.Howe.
The big D -- Hockeytown, wouldn't have been possible without you; and everyone in heaven is thankful for the new ice.
The big D -- Hockeytown, wouldn't have been possible without you; and everyone in heaven is thankful for the new ice.
6
I saw Howe play a lot as i was growing up. Many nights, he was the fastest, most skillful, toughest AND the smartest player on the ice. And more importantly, as you hear the stories pour out over the next few days, pay attention to the fact that this man, who was the best hockey player ever, was liked by all. I have never heard a bad word about the man personally. What a terrific life he had.
10
Gordie Howe was big, even to a baseball fan such as myself. Of course that was in an era when the four major sports didn't really compete with each other, back when the leagues that were your secondary interest didn't have so many teams even big fans couldn't name them all, back when the winner was the winner and losing teams couldn't get into the post-season.
Back when N.H.L. ice hockey teams played in cities where ice actually existed as part of the natural world.
Back when N.H.L. ice hockey teams played in cities where ice actually existed as part of the natural world.
6
My sympathies to the people of Detroit, who have endured enough suffering, and to America's dear neighbors in Canada at the loss of such an icon.
11
I don't like hockey but if you're a Canadian of a certain age, there's no way you don't know about Gordie Howe. The 'Hockey Night in Canada' theme song is as familiar as our national anthem.
Gordie Howe was one of the greats, on and off the ice. I hope that wherever he is, he's young and strong again, playing the game he loved and did so much for with that song playing in the background.
RIP
Gordie Howe was one of the greats, on and off the ice. I hope that wherever he is, he's young and strong again, playing the game he loved and did so much for with that song playing in the background.
RIP
13
He made Ted Lindsay look like a choir boy.
2
Truly, giants once walked (skated) the Earth...
Hail, Fare Well and do try to stay out of the penalty box in the future...
Hail, Fare Well and do try to stay out of the penalty box in the future...
10
He used to come and do Saturday hockey clinics for our Junior league in Detroit in the 50s in Belle Isle ...always generous with his time. I was amused to read a blog note the other day that Hockey had adopted groin cages in the 1880s but it wasn't until a100 years later that helmets were adopted. Clear where our values were then. Sad to see him go.
5
What a tough loss for hockey fans across the world. Gordie truly represented everything that it meant to play hockey "the right way", with grit, determination, and class. Despite being a Maple Leafs fan since birth, I always enjoyed watching Mr. Hockey play.
It was nice to learn last year that he will be honoured by having the newly built Detroit-Windsor Border crossing bridge named for him.
Just by coincidence I was walking by Joe Louis Arena just about a half hour ago and already saw several dozen people clad in Red Wings jerseys laying bouquets of flowers outside the arena in his honour. This shows the type of impact he had upon the people of Detroit, wether they're hockey fans or not.
It was nice to learn last year that he will be honoured by having the newly built Detroit-Windsor Border crossing bridge named for him.
Just by coincidence I was walking by Joe Louis Arena just about a half hour ago and already saw several dozen people clad in Red Wings jerseys laying bouquets of flowers outside the arena in his honour. This shows the type of impact he had upon the people of Detroit, wether they're hockey fans or not.
16
Along with Al Kaline of the Tigers, one of the two Detroit sports legends of my late 60's childhood. Was lucky enough to go to the same elementary school as his youngest, Murray, and to see him on a handful of occasions just in the course of a normal day, and it made an impression to connect the famed idol to this humble, approachable, and just plain nice regular father and neighbor. Work hard at what you love doing, but don't think that success makes you more worthy than others.
7
What a man, what a game. Compare that to today's soccer players running around flopping and whining at the slightest contact. Howe was the definition of manning up.
9
I grew up in Pontiac, MI and attended games at Olympia Stadium in Detroit with my father. I remember the Production Line: Howe, Lindsey and Abel forming in the defensive end and the crowd cheering in anticipation as they skated down the ice to attack the other team's goal. Howe was clearly one of the great multi talented players in all of sports and I was truly blessed to see him play.
On one occasion he was taken to then Briggs Stadium to see if he could play another sport. He hit the ball over the left field wall. Goodbye, Gordie, I hope to see you again.
On one occasion he was taken to then Briggs Stadium to see if he could play another sport. He hit the ball over the left field wall. Goodbye, Gordie, I hope to see you again.
9
I grew up in Detroit from 1950 into the 70's and listened to the Red Wings first on the radio and then whenever they were on Hockey Night in Canada. Gordie Howe is the greatest athlete of the Twentieth Century and along with many Detroiters and Michiganders a personal hero. Rest in Peace, Mr. Hockey!
9
All of our great sports heroes seem to be checking out. Berra, Ali, Howe.
A-Rod and Charlie Hustle, you should take notice and clean up your act if you
want to be truly remembered.
I hope Willie Mays and Sandy Koufax stick around for many years.
A-Rod and Charlie Hustle, you should take notice and clean up your act if you
want to be truly remembered.
I hope Willie Mays and Sandy Koufax stick around for many years.
3
Mr. Howe, please don't go throwing any elbows up in heaven. The penalty box up there is much more severe. RIP and miss you.
1
While I'm not a huge hockey fan today, I grew up watching Hockey Night in Canada and Gordie Howe. From those beginnings in Sask. Howe epitomized the modest Canadian. A great player and from all accounts a great human being.
4
Not a Red Wings fan but a hockey fan nonetheless. So I give deserved recognition to one of the great hockey players that brought so much to the sport. My condolences to Mr. Howe's family and the Red Wings organization.
2
Louie Fontinato, the fierce Ranger defenseman for seven seasons starting in the mid-50s was the undisputed and undefeated NHL enforcer until he tangled with Gordie Howe on Feb 1, 1959. Shockingly (to Ranger fans) this resulted in Fontinato being hospitalized with broken ribs and facial contusions. The mystique was broken and Louie was never then same after that.
Although not appreciated by this then very young Ranger fan at the time because he lacked flash and charisma his steadiness and dominance makes him arguably the best ever.
Although not appreciated by this then very young Ranger fan at the time because he lacked flash and charisma his steadiness and dominance makes him arguably the best ever.
2
Thank you Saskatchewan and condolences to Gordie's family. I was thrilled to see Gordie play against the Russians in 1974 with a WHA all-star team that also included Bobby Hull. He scored on a wicked wrist shot (shooting right-handed only as his arthritis prevented him from switching hands as he did in early days) that goalie Tretiak never saw. Adieu Mr. Hockey! Love, BogotáBub
2
I recall reading - I think it was a NYT Sunday Magazine article years ago - that right after he was born his mother went back out to work in the fields of his family's farm. If so, that's strong stock!
Growing up in Detroit in the 50s & 60's it was always special to watch him play at Olympia or on Hockey night in Canada. At pregame warmup one night some of the new "stars" were circling the ice as fast as they could when Goldie flew by skating Backwards!
This has been a rough week for athletic heroes. Mr. Howe will also be missed by the multitudes, and also for good reason. Good night sweet prince.
2
Not just the greatest hockey player, the greatest athlete in any sport I have ever seen. The Production Line of Sid Abel, Ted Lindsay and Gord Howe was magic on ice.
1
It is difficult to find enough superlatives when speaking of Gordie Howe. He had a head injury in the 1950-1951 Playoffs. I remember it well as it was my first year of high school in Trenton, MI. Kids loved him so much at the time. He was still fresh faced. Like the article states he had the perfect body for hockey. He certainly was the best all around player to ever pull 0n his skates. God Bless you and your family Gordie Howe from the prairie province of Saskatchewan.
3
Reading about Gordie Howe, I cannot help but think about Stan Mikita.
10
I was a kid in the 1960s and saw him play at Olympia Arena in Detroit several times. A true great. "Mr. Hockey" to all us Detroiters.
5
Gordie Howe was a class act....I remember seeing him once at a card show about 25 years ago. Nobody was in line to get his autograph, so I sat down and chatted with him uninterrupted for about ten minutes, after which he gave me an autograph for free.
15
Surely the greatest all-around player ever to lace up skates.
12
I grew up in suburban Detroit during Howe's later years on the Red Wings, and was fortunate enough to see him play a few times.
It seemed you never saw Gordie Howe without a smile on his face. He, literally, 'played' the game and enjoyed himself every time he went out on the ice. If I had to compare him to someone, say from basketball, I would say rather than a Michael Jordan, he was more like Magic Johnson. Never a bad thing to say about anyone and at his best during a game, and always good natured.
And yes, he had a sharp elbow, though my impression was it was only used for payback. Anyway, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
It seemed you never saw Gordie Howe without a smile on his face. He, literally, 'played' the game and enjoyed himself every time he went out on the ice. If I had to compare him to someone, say from basketball, I would say rather than a Michael Jordan, he was more like Magic Johnson. Never a bad thing to say about anyone and at his best during a game, and always good natured.
And yes, he had a sharp elbow, though my impression was it was only used for payback. Anyway, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
16
The Red Wings have had many, many very great players. Mr. Howe was the greatest.
2
Born and raised in the Detroit area, I remember well my trips to Olympia ("The Old Red Barn" on Grand River!). Somehow the Joe (Joe Louis Arena) just didn't seem to 'rock' during the Red Wings games there. I've been gone from the area almost 30 years - 12 in Chicago so I managed a few Black Hawks games and 17 here in NJ - only been to a couple Devils games. Nothing compares with Hockeytown USA (Detroit) and Mr. Hockey - Gordie Howe - may he RIP!
R. Galli
Edison, NJ
R. Galli
Edison, NJ
8
He was a big part of my life growing up in Detroit, expecially during the Red Wing glory years. RIP
10
Rest in peace, Mr, Howe.
I never saw him play. But as a kid, squirreled under the covers with my transistor radio, I heard him score again and on my beloved Bruins back in the Phil Esposito/Bobby Orr era. This taught me respect, and I've lways been grateful for the lesson. :)
I never saw him play. But as a kid, squirreled under the covers with my transistor radio, I heard him score again and on my beloved Bruins back in the Phil Esposito/Bobby Orr era. This taught me respect, and I've lways been grateful for the lesson. :)
10
First hockey game i saw on TV; Gordie scored 2 and this 8 year old was a hockey fan for life. Thanks Mr. Hockey. R.I.P. Sir, you've earned your rest. Condolences to his family.
5
My dad loved CBC's Hockey Night in Canada when our area finally got TV in the mid-50s. How I would like to relive those exciting evenings watching those hockey greats, now mostly gone. The Wings did their fall training in the Sault, & our Jr-Hi gym teacher walked our morning class down the street to the Pullar ice stadium to watch on a couple of occasions. Howe, Abel, Lindsay, the others. Wow!
14
I remember Gordie Howe doing an Amex commercial. "Did someone say check"? So he did. Always brings a smile to my face. Real class act. As the byline states, "Gordie Howe Glowed With Modesty" How true.
20
not a surprise but still a great shock for me. I thought quite possibly that Gordie would never die.
It happens to everyone , horses , dogs., men I guess.
Gone to a better place? If dirt is better than air.
More than poetry and more than prose. ( and those WHA stats count in my heart)
I know where Gordie belongs, rushing up his wing, elbow up holding off a defender, driving to the net, in full control.
Sad day, I think i may drive over to the old Olympia site and sit and think about things , maybe even sneak a beer.
So long Power, thanks for every shift.
It happens to everyone , horses , dogs., men I guess.
Gone to a better place? If dirt is better than air.
More than poetry and more than prose. ( and those WHA stats count in my heart)
I know where Gordie belongs, rushing up his wing, elbow up holding off a defender, driving to the net, in full control.
Sad day, I think i may drive over to the old Olympia site and sit and think about things , maybe even sneak a beer.
So long Power, thanks for every shift.
23
I got to see him play on the same line with his son when he was with Hartford. He was rough and tough. He was the best. RIP Mr Hockey.
14
Back in the sixties, I spent a year in Canada as a non-fan of hockey and believe I may have been the only person in the country who wasn't totally enamored of him.
2
Howe, Lindsay and Delvecchio. The best. Sid Abel was before my time.
2
The new bridge set to open in a few years between Canada and the us is called the Gordie Howe Bridge so fitting a tribute.
39
Even if you were not a hockey fan, most of North America knew the name 'Gordie Howe'. An icon athlete.
20
As a young boy, I attended Gordie Howe's final home game in a Detroit Red Wing uniform. At that time we had no idea about his return in the WHA, so this was the finale. I recall two things: the difficult traffic entering the arena parking lot and Howe scoring Detroit's lone goal in a 4-1 loss. In the second period, a quiet crowd suddenly drew its collective breath as Howe got a scoring chance, skating in on Tony Esposito, and he delivered...blew the roof off the old Olympia. The place exploded...goal Number 786
31
He was the face of hockey as Ali was the face of boxing while I was growing up. I couldn't tell you the name of a current hockey player or boxer. That's just how BIG these guys really were in their day.
22
Without a doubt the toughest player in the history of the NHL, you just didn't mess with Gordie Howe but he was a complete player. Not at all like the goons and bashers that arose in the late '60's and continue to this day. Possibly the strongest man ever to play the game, I once saw him skate down the ice while holding the puck down with the blade end of his stick. An opposing Ranger looked like he was trying to chop Howe's stick in half but couldn't get the puck free.
16
Having grown up in the Bronx in the 1950s-60s, by dad had Rangers' season tickets for a number of years. I was fortunate to see Gordie Howe play in person several times before he "retired" for the first time. It was said that his elbows were like "razor blades" and the proof was in the number of Rangers who simply stayed away from him. It's hard to believe that virtually none of the players back then wore a helmet. RIP.
20
Marty - a few years growing up in Renfrew, Ontario as a small boy, I remember his TV ads for Neilson's chocolate bars. He was very charming skating on a pond then whipping out the candy with a big smile.
However, he was considered one of the most dirtiest players of all time. If one was to beat Gordie in the corner with a stiff check, one paid dearly when the camera and refs weren't looking. He had hands like a vice and the elbows were as you say.
I prefer the small retaliatory reliefs from that era rather than the dropping of gloves with the organist getting into the act.
Thanks Gordie.
However, he was considered one of the most dirtiest players of all time. If one was to beat Gordie in the corner with a stiff check, one paid dearly when the camera and refs weren't looking. He had hands like a vice and the elbows were as you say.
I prefer the small retaliatory reliefs from that era rather than the dropping of gloves with the organist getting into the act.
Thanks Gordie.
5
Had the chance to meet Gordie and his late wife Colleen. He won an award named after my dad. While posing for a picture with them & my mom, Gordie gave me his famous elbow with that great smile. He will always be an institution in Detroit and the rest of Michigan. A brilliant hockey player and a wonderful human being.
26
As a kid in the 60s, could hardly wait for CBC Hockey Night in Canada to broadcast a Wings game to get a chance to watch Gordie Howe in action.
10
Mr Hockey. The Greatest. No one ever did it all like Gordie.
14
Gordie laid the foundation for the humble way hockey players conduct themselves off the ice to this day. Hard to find more of a gentleman. Thank you Mr. Howe. Your legacy lives on.
8
Gordie Howe was a fierce and great competitor.
I first started watching him play in the mid-1960s when the NHL had only 6 teams. Opposing players had so much respect for him - perhaps it was because of fear - that when they went to the boards, no one hit Gordie. I can only remember one instance when a player checked and hit him hard, breaking the unwritten rule not to do so (was it Moose Dupont? I simply can't remember who did it).
And then Gordie played in the WHA for a few years and into his early 50s with his sons, Mark and Marty, still stick-handling, passing and shooting.
So much respect and admiration hockey players and fans had for him. He was one of the players who put the NHL on the map and help with it's expanded reach into the US and on TV.
Kind of fitting that his death occurred during the Stanley Cup finals. I anticipate a tribute and remembrance just prior to Game 6.
Condolences to his family. Gordie Howe will be greatly missed by all.
I first started watching him play in the mid-1960s when the NHL had only 6 teams. Opposing players had so much respect for him - perhaps it was because of fear - that when they went to the boards, no one hit Gordie. I can only remember one instance when a player checked and hit him hard, breaking the unwritten rule not to do so (was it Moose Dupont? I simply can't remember who did it).
And then Gordie played in the WHA for a few years and into his early 50s with his sons, Mark and Marty, still stick-handling, passing and shooting.
So much respect and admiration hockey players and fans had for him. He was one of the players who put the NHL on the map and help with it's expanded reach into the US and on TV.
Kind of fitting that his death occurred during the Stanley Cup finals. I anticipate a tribute and remembrance just prior to Game 6.
Condolences to his family. Gordie Howe will be greatly missed by all.
14
As good a hockey player as Ali was a boxer (although less of a public figure), Howe was a marvel.
New Yorkers should think of him the way they think of Lawrence Taylor.
New Yorkers should think of him the way they think of Lawrence Taylor.
7
I had the pleasure of working with Mr Howe on a TV commercial in the mid '80s.
What a gentleman. Go and teach the angels how to play the "game" Mr Howe!
What a gentleman. Go and teach the angels how to play the "game" Mr Howe!
17
No doubt the strongest player on the puck of all time. Whether you were a Detroit fan or not, you just had to love it when Howe would skate in with the puck from the right wing and then lean on the defenseman to gain position on the net before ramming the puck home with one hand past the goalie. He was amazing in so many ways, but this will always stand out in my mind as the epitome of his greatness.
15
Growing up, my sports heroes were Mickey Mantle, Muhammad Ali and Gordie Howe. Mickey passed on in August of 1995, but to lose the other two inside a matter of days...well...let's just say it hasn't been much of a week
55
A class act, unlike the bully thug brats who garner so much money and drunken headlines today. We need to go back to those Old Heroes since they can teach us a lot about real character and what it might mean to be happy without booze, drugs, dangerous sex, gratuitous violence, greed, cheating et al.
11
A great player and ambassador for the game. Truly a sad day for hockey fans.
10
The one and only, Mr. Hockey. GOAT without a doubt.
A giant who played with style and power. A humble man. The pride of Detroit. Feels like a grandfather died today.
RIP, Gordie
A giant who played with style and power. A humble man. The pride of Detroit. Feels like a grandfather died today.
RIP, Gordie
12
A towering figure in the professional hockey world! Would give my Rangers, when they had all of my support, fits!! May He Rest in Peace!!!
4
Mr. Hockey for Canada.
4
I was a Red Wings fan in Boston because of Mr. Howe. RIP.
14
greatest ever
14
Howe is indeed a legend of the game, but don't get carried away. Gretzky had a thousand more points than Howe in about 400 less games.
RIP Gordie
RIP Gordie
3
Howe played in an era when scoring was half that of the roaring 80s. Gretzky played In a diluted league where the average score was 6-4. Plus, he didn't play much defense.
4
There is a strong argument to be made for Gordie being the best ever. There is a lot more to hockey than points. Gordie was the most complete player to ever play the game; it's very hard to come up with anyone else who is even close. (Messier?) Then there's the twenty straight years in the Top 5 of scoring, and 23 years with 23 or more goals, and the 20 straight All-Star teams (when that meant you were First Team or Second Team, period).
Bur to address the matter of points: Gordie's prime years were in the 50's and 60's when (1) goals were far harder to come by than in the run-and-gun 80's, and (2) when second assists were only given on a goal if the official scorer thought it contributed directly to the goal being scored. Since the 70's a second assist is given if someone even touched the puck 200 feet away from the goal.
By the way, I live in Edmonton, had season tickets to the Oilers in the 80's, and love Wayne Gretzky. But to dismiss Howe because he had fewer points is a very one-dimensional view of hockey. Both Gretzky and Bobby Orr, when asked, will tell you Gordie was the best player ever to play the game. It's hard to compare different styles over different eras, but they might know something.
Bur to address the matter of points: Gordie's prime years were in the 50's and 60's when (1) goals were far harder to come by than in the run-and-gun 80's, and (2) when second assists were only given on a goal if the official scorer thought it contributed directly to the goal being scored. Since the 70's a second assist is given if someone even touched the puck 200 feet away from the goal.
By the way, I live in Edmonton, had season tickets to the Oilers in the 80's, and love Wayne Gretzky. But to dismiss Howe because he had fewer points is a very one-dimensional view of hockey. Both Gretzky and Bobby Orr, when asked, will tell you Gordie was the best player ever to play the game. It's hard to compare different styles over different eras, but they might know something.
5
Thank you for including the mention of the Howe Hat Trick -- he was a hockey original.
39
As a kid growing up in Michigan in the 1960's he was an idol of the first order.
38
I wish I had a dollar for every Red Wings jersey worn by my school friends while growing up in Michigan. As every girl wanted a Barbie doll, every boy wants a Red Wings jersey for Christmas. Both idols of the first order.
4
As a kid growing up in Connecticut in the late 1970s he was an idol of the first order.
2
Some girls wanted a Red Wings jersey.
1