By Canadian Press

Hockey world paying tribute to the Great One’s father, Walter Gretzky

Mar 5, 2021 | 3:21 AM

Walter Gretzky, a blue-collar symbol of a devoted hockey parent in a country filled with them, has died. Tributes poured in shortly after his son, hockey great Wayne Gretzky, confirmed the 82-year-old’s death Thursday night.

Here is what some in the hockey world had to say about the Gretzky patriarch:

“RIP Walter Gretzky – was always a class act and someone my parents enjoyed running into at Leaf games.” — Philadelphia Flyers forward James van Riemsdyk.

“Sad news!!! Walter Gretzky was so genuine and such a people person. If we had more people like Walter on this earth, the world undoubtedly would be a better place!!!” — former NHLer Marc Savard.

“I’m so sorry to hear of Walter Gretzky’s passing. A legend. A gentleman. A kind soul. He cared about so may others before himself. I think that if we aspired to be half as great as Walter, we would be ok.” — former NHLer Darren Pang.

Court proceedings

Drugs and weapons bust in Stanley Mission, results in two year sentence

19h ago

health care

La Loche recipient of new portable blood analyzer, printer kit

20h ago

Crime

Dangerous driving report at Red Wing, leads to arrest of man with gun

23h ago

“Always the gentleman. Always had a smile and so incredibly generous with his time. Canada’s hockey dad is a very fitting description.” — Toronto Maple Leafs president Brendan Shanahan.

“He was truly a great guy. Godspeed Walter.” — Don Cherry.

“My heart goes out to the Gretzky family. He was what we all picture as a proud hockey dad.” — former NHLer Martin Biron.

“Obviously a pioneer of the game. And it’s a really sad day, so my condolences go out to the Gretzky family.” — Toronto Maple Leafs centre and alternate captain Auston Matthews

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 5, 2021.

The Canadian Press