BRANTFORD, Ontario – Walter Gretzky’s family thought the end would come soon in mid-February.
The greatest hockey player’s father had sustained a serious hip injury and, after battling Parkinson’s disease and other health problems for the past few years, his time – something Walter was always willing to give friends and strangers alike – seemed short.
“But he had a love for life and didn’t want to leave,” Wayne Gretzky said in an emotional eulogy on Saturday. “We sat with him for 21 days and just enjoyed life. We had the opportunity and opportunity to tell stories.”
And Walter Gretzky’s life was full of it.
Walter Gretzky, known as Canada’s hockey dad, died Thursday at the age of 82. His death sparked an avalanche of tributes for a sincere, approachable, authentic person who nurtured Wayne’s incredible talents in the family’s famous Brantford backyard, but never forgot where he came from.
“He was a remarkable man who loved life, loved family,” said Wayne Gretzky. ‘We would be a much better world if there were so many more people like my dad. Very special. We are all in pain. ‘
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, funeral services were limited to the family. But hundreds of people — including many children wearing Gretzky sweaters — gathered outside St. Mark’s Anglican Church in this town, about 62 miles west of Toronto.
“A difficult time,” Gretzky said, his voice cracking and tears in his eyes. ‘I am so proud of the fact that so many people have reached out and paid him such great credit because he deserves it. He has the heart of gold. ‘
Walter was there every step of the way as Wayne rose to greatness, including four Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers and the NHL’s all-time career leader in goals, assists and points.
He worked at Bell for more than three decades – and long after his son became the sport’s biggest star – Walter remained a loving symbol of dedication.
“A very humble man,” said Pastor Dr. Tim Dobbin, who led the broadcast of the funeral live on TSN and streamed it on Sportsnet.ca. He spoke the truth. Wally’s word was his band. ‘
A video tribute at the end of the service included photos from the early days on the backyard rink, Wayne’s triumphs, Walter on the ice teaching kids, the Gretzky memorabilia in the family home, and highlights from Wayne’s last games in the NHL.
As the box was about to be led out of the church and out into the sun, the song “The Hockey Theme,” made famous on “Hockey Night in Canada,” was played.
And as Walter’s funeral procession withdrew from the church – the building’s sign read “ We Will Miss You Wally ” – some of the jersey-clad kids waiting outside tapped their hockey sticks on the sidewalk.
It was a fitting departure for Canada’s hockey father.