In Memoriam
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Walter Gretzky, father, friend and ambassador at Wayne Gretzky Estates.
A loving father figure, inspiring coach, avid hockey player and a man of profound humility, Walter leaves a great legacy behind him. From early mornings spent coaching his children and the neighbourhood kids at the “Wally Coliseum,” his backyard rink; to building benches and chairs made of recycled hockey sticks for the Canadian National Institute for the Blind; to inventing hockey drills that were remarkably ahead of their time in Canada, Walter’s love for and contributions to the great game leave an indelible mark on his family and the hockey community at large.
Off the ice, Walter was a driver of change within Canada, dedicating much of his life to championing local and national charities, including the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, the Ontario Lung Association, and Canada’s Heart and Stroke Foundation. A testament to his dedication and generous spirit, he was awarded the Honour of Canada in 2007 for his charitable work and his contributions to minor hockey programs across Canada.
To Canada’s Hockey Dad, a true Great One, and the man who inspired a nation, we raise our glass to you one final time. Our thoughts are with Wayne, Kim, Keith Glen and Brent, and we thank them for allowing Walter to be our dad too.
You will be dearly missed but will live in our hearts forever.