Saskatoon mayor recalls Gordie Howe’s impact on city

Sportsnet special on the legendary life and career of Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe. Narrated by Stephen Brunt.

SASKATOON — The mayor of Gordie Howe’s hometown of Saskatoon says he had to take a deep breath when he heard the hockey great had died.

Don Atchison says flags are being lowered to half-mast out of respect for Howe, who was born in Saskatchewan and grew up in the city.

Atchison called Howe an “exceptional talent” who also did a lot for kids sports and charities in Saskatoon.

The city already has several venues and a road named after Howe, but Atchison says he’s not closing the door on naming something else after the hockey player.

Howe’s final visit to Saskatoon was in February 2015 for a celebrity dinner in his honour.

Atchison says fans are suggesting that Garth Brooks wear a Howe hockey jersey when the country singer performs at a concert in Saskatoon tonight.

When submitting content, please abide by our submission guidelines, and avoid posting profanity, personal attacks or harassment. Should you violate our submissions guidelines, we reserve the right to remove your comments and block your account. Sportsnet reserves the right to close a story’s comment section at any time.