Mr. Hockey has passed away.
Detroit Red Wings legend Gordie Howe died at the age of 88 on Friday morning with his family by his side. Howe’s son Marty, confirmed his passing to CNN Sports.
Howe was one of the all-time greats, playing over 30 seasons in pro hockey. Howe played his first 25 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings before joining the Houston Aeros and New England Whalers of the WHA for six seasons. Howe finished his decorated pro career with the Hartford Whalers. He eventually signed a one-year contract with the Detroit Vipers of the IHL at 69 years old as his career spanned more than six decades.
Howe won multiple scoring titles, four Stanley Cups and Six Hart trophies during his career. He was the long-time all-time points leader, amassing 1,850 career points in 1,767 career games. At this time, Howe currently ranks fourth in all-time points. Howe was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1972.
I once went for a walk with Mr. Hockey and his son as they talked about heaven. From my @Sportsnet mag story. pic.twitter.com/9UyG0Nro5x
— Dan Robson (@RobsonDan) June 10, 2016
Howe’s health had deteriorated over recent years. He had two strokes in 2014 which greatly affected his health. He also suffered from a form of dementia. Howe underwent stem cell transplants in 2015 which had given the hockey legend a “miraculous improvement”.
Howe’s passing is a huge loss for the hockey community. He personified the sport and his long, incredible career is something we’ll likely never see again. Howe was one of a kind and will be missed.
DETROIT – MARCH 11: The jersey retirement banner for Gordie Howe #9 of the Detroit Red Wings (1946-1971) hangs in the rafters during a game against the Minnesota Wild on March 11, 2010 at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
