Very sad news. Growing up in Moose Jaw, he was a true legend and home town hero. I lived and died hockey. Many long days were spent on the ODR's. Wherever the best shinney was happening. I followed the Regina Pats and Moose Jaw Canucks. The Pats because of Clarke Gillies and another Moose Javian, goalie Ed Stanioski. Ed went on to a decent NHL career playing for St. Louis and Winnipeg. The Canucks because they were Moose Jaw's team. I was able to see many games at the crushed can in the 70's Notable Canuck names I saw in person - Willie Desjardins, Bryan Trottier, Doug Smail and Mitch Bozak (Tyler's father). Crazy hockey back then. I remember my friend's dad going over the glass and onto the ice.
I have a few Clarke Gillies stories. When he was drafted by the Islanders it was huge news in Moose Jaw. Clarke was on a talk show. I called in and was able to congratulate him and chat hockey. I was 11 or 12 years old. What a moment! Another one is when my mom and dad and a few of my siblings were driving from Moose Jaw to Regina to do some shopping. Who passes us in a sweet new Chevy Chevelle SS - Clarke Gillies. Mesmerizing. Supposely going to the Regina aiport to report to the Islanders. My last story is 20 years or so later. I worked at Kananaskis Country Golf Course. Long story short, I was contacted by a friend of a friend and Clarke Gillies wanted to play Kananaskis. At the time, there was a pro sports celebrity golf circuit or something like that. I remember Mario Lemeuix playing in it. Clarke was an exceptional golfer. The next tournament was in Colorado somewhere and close to the same elevation as Kananaskis. I was able to arrange a tee time for Clarke and his travelling partner, a Long Island businessman. And, I played 18 holes of golf on Mt. Lorette with my hockey idol Clarke Gillies. He could crush the ball. Something I will never forget.
Again sad news and way too young.
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