Walter Gretzky's passing

     The hockey world has taken a beating this week. From Mark Pavelic (RIP Pav) to Tom Wilson’s wallet getting ready for another suspension. But the news that absolutely broke my heart was the passing of Walter Gretzky, because behind the great one was a great father. Walt was the kindest yet stern gentleman of the sport. He was the influence of all the hard work and passion behind Wayne Gretzky. 

    What hurts the most about his passing was that late last year Walter had his home robbed by fellow neighbors and a cop in Brantford, Ontario. They stole one of a kind objects and game used equipment from Wayne’s career, from minor hockey to the NHL. Walter’s home was described as a museum to Wayne, a truly proud father. He took great pride in his son, not living through him but instead being there for him. 

    Walter frequently allowed visitors of all walks of life to celebrate Wayne and all that he has done for the game. But what most people have overlooked was that Walter himself has become such an ambassador of the sport that he should be inducted into the hall of fame as a builder of hockey. All you had to do was knock, then Walter would open the door and make you a cup of coffee and show you around. Truly a great man would trust so willingly. He always looked at humanity as good, a trait I wish I had. 

    Walt you will be missed, not just by your family and fellow Canadians, but by all hockey fans. You gave us Wayne Gretzky and taught him to be humble and to remember where he came from. And as an American I can look at Walter Gretzky as a role model on how to be a father, because there would be no great one without a great dad.

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