Walter Gretzky dies at age 82

[BigT]

A very sad day in hockey as a great ambassador or father to the Great Wayne Gretzky has passed away. I know many that went to Walters house in Brantford, he welcomed them in and showed them around all of Wayne, Keith, Brent, Glen and Kim’s trophies and accomplishments. A proud father and a great ambassador to the game as he always took time to any fan who wanted an autograph, picture, or even hear a story. His legend is as great as Wayne’s trophy case. Not only was he the father to the greatest to ever play, he opened his doors (literally) to any fan looking at to meet him and see around his house. Seriously he did that. I know a few people that went to his house, knocked on his door and he welcomed them in. What a guy! Although we won’t see him again. He’s a legend and he’s great man to learn from. May be Rest In Peace and thank you opening your heart to the world. He will be missed in Southern Ontario and all over Canada 🇨🇦!!!

[galaxytrash]

[BigT]

My son was selected to play for a team called DraftDay. They play out of Brantford at the Wayne Gretzky arena. This is the first year my son is doing it and Walter used to come down and see the kids. It’s too bad cuz my son is a stats freak and a true student of the game. He knows more about the Gretzky’s than I do. I really think he would have enjoyed meeting him.

However, 82 is never enough time no matter who you are. But he lived a great life and made the most out of having Parkinson’s. RIP Canada’s Hockey Dad!!!

[galaxytrash]

useless factoid o' the day.

the gretzky's were almost a chicago family.

according to walter's wiki page, some time before WW1 his dad anton emigrated to chicago from belarus but for some reason it didn't work out and they moved to ontario where anton got married they had a 25 acre cucumber farm.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Gretzky