NHL legend Gordie Howe passed away on Friday. He was 88.
Murray Howe, Gordi’s son, confirmed the death via a text to the Associated Press, "Mr Hockey left peacefully, beautifully, and w no regrets."
Howe was diagnosed with dementia in 2012. He suffered two strokes in 2014 and lost some function on the right side of his body. His family said that chronic back pain, advanced dementia and high blood pressure were taking a toll on him, according to ESPN.
"On behalf of the generations who were thrilled by his play and those who only know of his legend, and on behalf of all the young people and teammates he inspired, we send heartfelt wishes of condolence, comfort and strength to the Howe family and to all who mourn the passing of this treasured icon of our game,” NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement.
Howe, who was a native of Floral, Saskatchewan and was known as "Mr. Hockey," played in the NHL for 26 years with the Detroit Red Wings. He also spent six seasons in the World Hockey Association. He had 801 goals, 1,850 points, won four Stanley Cup titles, the Hart Trophy and was the league MVP six times, according to NHL.com. Howe is the NHL’s all-time leader in games played with 1,767. He retired from hockey for good in 1980 and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1972.