Tributes pour in for Walter Gretzky, Canada's hockey dad

Walter Gretzky, the father of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, has died at the age of 82. Tributes from fans and friends of the late Canadian hockey dad poured in after his son, Wayne, confirmed his dad’s death Thursday night.

“It’s with deep sadness that Janet and I share the news of the passing of my dad,” Wayne wrote on social media. “He bravely battled Parkinson’s and other health issues these last 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,” he added.

Wayne added that they will miss their dad so much, “but know that he’s back with our Mom and that brings me and my family peace.” Phyllis Gretzky died of lung cancer in 2005.

“He truly was the Great One and the proudest Canadian we know. We love you Dad,” Wayne concluded his statement.

Wayne was Walter’s first born in 1961, followed by Kim, Keith, Glen and Brent. Keith and Brent both played professional hockey. Walter turned the backyard of their Brantford home into a rink for Wayne when he was four, which 99 referred to as "The Wally Coliseum." That's where Wayne's love for hockey began. 

Walter was a guest speaker at many sports awards dinners and he was a national spokesman for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. He was named to the Order of Canada in 2007. Walter took part in the 2010 Olympics ceremony by carrying the Olympic torch on the last day of the Olympic relay in the leadup to the opening ceremonies in Vancouver, where his son Wayne lit the Olympic flame. 

Walter was well known in the hockey world and his death sparked an outpouring of tributes from hockey stars, politicians, fans and friends.

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

Brendan Shanahan, president of the Toronto Maple Leafs, wrote, “Always the gentleman. Always had a smile and so incredibly generous with his time. Canada’s hockey dad is a very fitting description. Deepest condolences to Wayne and the entire Gretzky family.”

The Canadian Forces account tweeted, “Rest easy, Walter Gretzky.”

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.”

Edmonton Oiler’s Bob Nicholson & Kevin Lowe said, “Walter was truly everyone's hockey dad. 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."

Hockey Hall of Fame member Doug Gilmour wrote, “Heartbreaking to hear we’ve lost Canada’s Hockey Dad Walter Gretzky. Sending love and condolences to the whole Gretzky family at this difficult time. #RIPWally.”

Former NHL player Tie Domi wrote, “Deepest condolences to Wayne & family on the loss of there dad Walter. He impacted anyone that has met him his smile, stories, jokes, autographs, standing ovations I seen it all he was the ultimate hockey dad He was a dear friend. He will be dearly missed & never forgotten.”

Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser said, “My dad and Wally, just two dads talking hockey, heading to see Cirque in Vegas. As good as they come, we will all miss you Wally.”

Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, wrote, “Walter Gretzky was a Canadian legend and a great inspiration to many fathers, including me. He was so kind and always took time to talk and sign autographs for fans. Losing a parent is so difficult. Wayne, my sincere condolences go out to you and your entire family.”

See more tributes to the late Walter Gretzky below.

Walter is also survived by children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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