The man known in the hockey world as Mr. Hockey has passed away.
Gordie Howe died this morning at his son’s home in Ohio surrounded by family. He was 88 years-old. Howe, known as “Mr. Hockey”, played 26 seasons in the NHL, including 25 with the Detroit Red Wings.
Former goaltender Dave Gatherum Sr. of Thunder Bay played with Howe in Detroit during the 1953-54 season when the Red Wings won the Stanley Cup.
Gatherum says there is no question that Howe is the greatest Red Wing of all-time and is Detroit hockey.
Howe, who was named to 23 All-Star teams during his NHL career, was born in Floral, Saskatchewan in 1928.
Gordie Howe passes away at the age of 88: https://t.co/PbwcO0vQRt #9RIP pic.twitter.com/rfDzSmqbBN
— #StanleyCup Final (@NHL) June 10, 2016
The Hockey Hall of Fame is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Gordie Howe. Mr. Hockey was a true legend. pic.twitter.com/jIWj6tKR8h
— Hockey Hall of Fame (@HockeyHallFame) June 10, 2016
Thoughts and prayers to the Howe family as Gordie Howe passes away at the age of 88. #9RIP pic.twitter.com/i9KRzXRgwV
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) June 10, 2016
Howe’s professional career spanned five decades – starting in 1945 in the United Hockey League and ending in 1997 with a shift for the International Hockey League’s Detroit Vipers in 1997.
He amassed 1,850 NHL points and sits fourth in the league’s all-time points leaders.
My condolences to the family of Gordie Howe, the Detroit Red Wings and all his fans around the world. He will always be Mr. Hockey.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 10, 2016