Remembering Walter

Order of Canada recipient. Honourary Doctorate of Letters. Canada’s most famous Hockey Dad. Lord Mayor of Brantford. Brantford Citizen of the Year. Inductee to the Brantford and Area Sports Hall of Recognition. Author. Coach. Neighbour. Friend. Husband. Dad. Grandfather. Great Grandfather.  So many accolades, and monikers. To Brantford locals, he was often referenced as just “Walter” (or “Wally”) and everyone knew who that meant. We are deeply saddened by the loss of this incredible man and truly thankful to his family for sharing him with the world.

Fittingly, there have been many local sporting events named in honour of Walter’s indelible contribution to minor sports in Brantford, including: Walter Gretzky Tournament – Brantford Girls Hockey Association, Walter Gretzky House League Tournament – Brantford Minor Hockey Association, Walter Gretzky Street Hockey Tournament – Lung Health Foundation/BHi Brantford and the Walter Gretzky CNIB Celebrity Golf Classic. And most recently, the City of Brantford renamed Northridge Golf Course as the Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course, Banquet and Learning Centre.

At any given time during these events (or anywhere that he attended, really), you could find Walter seated at a table signing autographs and taking pictures with anyone and everyone who wanted one. He never let anyone, especially kids, walk away disappointed. His inside coat pocket (ink marks all over the lining) was filled to the brim with pens so he was always ready to sign an autograph. Walter had many fans, both young and old alike, and would take the time to spend a few moments with each and every one of them so that their visit would be memorable.

As a frequent guest of the Tournament Capital of Ontario (TCO)/Sport Networking Meetings, Walter was the star of the show. His kind, playful and joyous personality was endearing, leaving all of us with special memories. One of the longstanding traditions of these meetings was to introduce yourself to the group. When it was Walter’s turn, he would stand – and with a mischievous glint in his eye – say, “I’m Mario Lemieux’s dad!” This brought the house down every time. As an incredibly patriotic man, Walter always began meetings with a reminder that “We live in the greatest country in the world: Canada” and then ask to say grace before the meal. Today his words are etched in all of our minds:

“For food in a world where many walk in hunger.

For faith in a world where many walk in fear.

For friends in a world where many walk alone.

We give you thanks, O Lord, Amen.”

Walter brought so much joy and inspired such great pride in our community. We will always be grateful for all he has done for our city - the place he called, “…The Centre of the Universe.” Walter, your star will always shine bright.

Rest in Peace, Mr. Gretzky.

#BrantfordTogether