Maybe it was because I was to young to see Theo for what he was when he was a Flame, but the memories I have of the guy are all great ones, both on and off the ice.
I remember standing in line at Crowfoot Food for Less (before it became Safeway) for hours, waiting for an autograph, or hanging outside the dome after games waiting for autographs, and Theo was always nothing but happy to acknowledge the fans, especially the kids.
Perhaps he was a real dick to guys his age, or older, but from my standpoint as a child, he was a hero.
Years later, I saw him a lot at his Concrete shop, and he was always very welcoming and personable.
The guy is an icon in the fight against child sexual abuse, and a huge advocate for first nations. He does tonnes of local and nationwide fundraising and public/motivational speaking.
I guess I just don't understand the hate some of you have. I get that he had/has a strong personality, but isn't that what made him such a feisty emotional player? How could you honestly expect him not to have a chip on his shoulder after everything he went through?
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