WALTER GRETZKY

When Walter Gretzky passed away on March 4, 2021, at the age of 82, most of us, who learned how to the play the game on an outdoor rink, could relate to the special relationship between Walter and his son, Wayne. Although we didn't turn out like Wayne Gretzky, the greatest hockey player of his generation, we did spend hours skating, passing, and shooting on backyard rinks carefully constructed by our dad's. This process was often carried out in freezing cold temperatures, with a brisk wind, and trying to find pucks in the snowbanks. Also, breaks were taken to sweep or shovel accumulated snow from the ice surface.

A father, and his son, doing what came naturally. A bond that couldn't be broken.

This shared experience, and the memories that have lasted with the passage of time, were brought to the forefront with Walter's death. And how lucky were we that Walter preserved those moments of his young son developing his skills on film. Every report on television the next day, included scenes recorded by Walter of Wayne going through his workout. It captured the time for all to see. The clock was turned back.

The announcement of Walter's passing was made by Wayne Gretzky on Twitter. "It's with deep sadness that Janet and I share the news of the passing of my Dad. He bravely battled Parkinson's and other health issues these past few years, but he never let it get him down. For my sister and my 3 brothers, Dad was our team captain - he guided, protected and led our family every day, every step of the way. For me, he was the reason I fell in love with the game of hockey. He inspired me to be the best I could be not just in the game of hockey, but in life. We will miss him so much, but know that he's back with our Mom and that brings me and my family peace. He truly was the Great One and the proudest Canadian we know."

An outpouring of memories of Walter, and condolences for the Gretzky family, were posted on Twitter.

"Walter Gretzky cared deeply about his family and his community - his kindness was undeniable, his passion was obvious, and his impact was immense," wrote Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. "My thoughts are with Wayne and the entire Gretzky family, and all who are mourning the loss of Canada's hockey dad."

"Walter was truly everyone's hockey dad," noted the Edmonton Oilers, where Wayne Gretzky captured four Stanley Cups. "He will be missed by all of us, but the memories created by his tremendous character & passion for our game will remain with us forever."

The NHL Alumni wrote, "It is often said that you will be remembered for what you do for others, and Walter Gretzky will be remembered forever. Never too busy to take a photo or sign an autograph, Walter left a lasting impression on everyone he met and he will forever be Canada's Hockey Dad."

"The Toronto Maple Leafs join the hockey community in mourning the loss of Canada's hockey dad, Walter Gretzky. A warm and gracious fixture at Maple Leafs home games for years, Walter made everyone he met feel special. Our condolences to the Gretzky family & Walter's innumerable friends."