Howe family looks forward to day honouring Mr. Hockey

Members of the Howe family are getting ready to celebrate the life of Mr. Hockey in his hometown.

Saskatoon will celebrate Thank you, Mr. Hockey Day on Sunday with a series of events honouring legendary hockey star Gordie Howe, who died in June at 88.

Sunday morning will see a private ceremony where a portion of Howe and wife Colleen’s ashes will be interred inside a statue of Howe that sits in front of SaskTel Centre.

“It’s going to be quite the day, I think. I’m pleased that part of my brother is coming home,” Howe’s sister Helen Cummine said.

After the internment, the Blades will escort the Howe family to the Circle Drive South Bridge, which will then be re-named in Howe’s honour.

Howe’s grandson, Corey Howe, recently moved to Saskatoon from Ohio to pursue a relationship with a woman he met at a Kinsmen Club dinner honouring his grandfather.

He said he’s been struck by how many people he meets here who have a tale to tell about his grandfather.

“They just light up. They’ve got a Gordie Howe story and they just pour out their hearts and their love for my grandpa. I can only stand there and say how important he was to me as well, and how  special it is to be a part of it.”

Other activities on Sunday will be centred around the home opener for the Saskatoon Blades.

The team will wear special commemorative jerseys and the concourse at SaskTel Centre will feature artwork featuring Howe as well as displays of various trophies he won over his career.

There will be a tailgate party in the stadium starting at noon.