Wayne Gretzky’s father has died

Wayne Gretzky is in mourning for his father Walter, whose death was revealed Thursday.

Walter Gretzky died at the age of 82. He suffered from Parkinson’s disease and other health problems. However, the exact cause of death was not disclosed.

“Janet and I are very sad to share the news of my father’s death,” Wayne wrote in a Twitter post. For my sister and three brothers, Dad was our team captain – he guided, protected and led our family. ”

“For me, he’s the reason I fell in love with hockey. He can make me feel the best not only in hockey, but in life as well. We miss him so much, but we know he’s back with Amma, and it gives us peace of mind. ”

The father of a legendary hockey player was awarded the Order of Canada in 2007 for his contribution to small hockey in the country and his dedication to various charities. He took the torch for the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver at the closing ceremony; His son lit the Olympic torch at the start of the Games.

Born in Cunningham, Ontario, Walter Gretzky has five children with his wife, Phyllis Hawkins, who died in 2005. In addition, he described the journey of his famous son Wayne in a book published in 1985, “For Gretz: The Backyard Rink to the Stanley Cup”.

“He never kicked a skate in the National Hockey League [LNH], Walter Gretzky’s influence on our circuit and our sport is profound. He embodied the greatest of parents. He taught hockey to his children at the famous backyard ice rink he built in his hometown of Brantford. Walter showed not only an incredible understanding of the essence of hockey, but also a love and respect for the sport associated with the name Gretzky, ”NHL Commissioner Gary Betman said in a statement.