Ed Snider stories shared at late Flyers owner's memorial service

Executives, players, and fans of the Philadelphia Flyers paid respect to the Snider family at late owner and chairman Ed Snider's memorial Thursday at the Wells Fargo Center, and shared stories about a man who's love for his hockey team was incomparable.

An emotional NHL commissioner Gary Bettman spoke at the service. He revealed that Snider was the first owner he contacted when the 2013 work stoppage ended - a call that happened to be placed on Snider's 80th birthday.

"This has always been a loud building," Bettman added. "And Ed's voice has always been among the loudest."

Virlen Reyes, the first graduate of Snider Hockey, a foundation Ed created to help educate Philadelphia youth, thanked him for the hope and promise that replaced despair when she found the program.

Drew Katz, who Snider comforted after his father, Lewis Katz, died in a car crash, lit up the room, telling a story about how Ed once booted Donald Trump from his box during a playoff game because he wouldn't stop talking.

Bob Clarke said that no amount of preparation for Ed's death could prepare the organization for the hurt. And he expressed his desire to have Snider see him represent the Flyers one more time.

"When I pass, I hope I get one more chance to play in the orange and black for Mr. Snider's Philadelphia Flyers," Clarke said.

Finally, Ed's son Jay said that the last thing his father said was that he "can't thank the Flyers enough for everything they've given to me and my family."

And Jay asserted this: