The NHL lost a true icon Friday as Gordie Howe died at the age of 88.
Mr. Hockey is one of the most beloved players in the history of the game, and his enormous impact on the sport crosses generations.
Players, teams, and media alike paid tribute to Howe via social media.
Thoughts and prayers to the Howe family as Gordie Howe passes away at the age of 88. #9RIP pic.twitter.com/i9KRzXRgwV
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) June 10, 2016
From 1990: Muhammad Ali and Gordie Howe with Jim Brown and Rod Laver. pic.twitter.com/4px25szMxZ
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) June 10, 2016
The Hockey Hall of Fame is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Gordie Howe. Mr. Hockey was a true legend. pic.twitter.com/jIWj6tKR8h
— Hockey Hall of Fame (@HockeyHallFame) June 10, 2016
HHOF chairman Lanny McDonald offered further condolences on behalf of the Hall later Friday.
"Gordie Howe is a true legend who not only inspired so many people by his achievements on the ice, but to all of those who interacted with him throughout his life," McDonald said in a statement.
"He represented our game with great dignity and always had time for his legions of fans. On behalf of the Hockey Hall of Fame and all of our Honoured Members, I would like to extend heartfelt condolences to Mark, Marty and the entire Howe family, and to express our gratitude to Gordie for the treasured memories and legacy he is leaving behind for all to celebrate. Thank you, 'Mr. Hockey'."
My condolences to the family of Gordie Howe, the Detroit Red Wings and all his fans around the world. He will always be Mr. Hockey.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 10, 2016
Gordie Howe you will be missed. Thoughts and prayers. The reason I wore #9. #9RIP..
— Mike Modano (@9modano) June 10, 2016
World lost one of the greatest human beings and the best all time hockey player. Thanks for many lessons and memories. RIP Gordie
— Pavel Datsyuk (@Datsyuk13) June 10, 2016
Had the privilege of meeting Gordie Howe one time. He was a fantastic man. Too many greats leaving us this year.#MrHockey #gordiehowe🎩trick
— John Mitchell (@mitchabov) June 10, 2016
Our thoughts are with Gordie Howe's family and @DetroitRedWings nation. Rest in peace, Mr. Hockey. #9RIP pic.twitter.com/9LGpakHCla
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) June 10, 2016
It is with great sadness that the Canadiens have learned the passing of hockey legend Gordie Howe. #9RIP pic.twitter.com/vb5fI2druZ
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) June 10, 2016
Our thoughts & prayers go out to the Howe family & @DetroitRedWings organization.
— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) June 10, 2016
Rest in peace, Mr. Hockey. #Legend pic.twitter.com/CDqjHA17WH
R.I.P pic.twitter.com/dG8qVb1o4l
— Jiri Tlusty (@J_T_19) June 10, 2016
Rest in peace Mr. Hockey.. Getting to meet you was truly an honor #watchtheelbow #foreveralegend pic.twitter.com/ZlGin0rKyL
— Kevin Shattenkirk (@shattdeuces) June 10, 2016
Hockey lost a great man today. RIP Mr. Howe. You were an icon to the game and an unbelievable ambassador!
— Steven Kampfer (@SteveKampfer47) June 10, 2016
Gordie Howe was great in so many ways...on and off the ice. He will be deeply missed, but also glad he is now at peace. #9
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) June 10, 2016
To Mr. Hockey thanks for teaching us to be gracious and humble away from the rink. #RIP The game will miss you. pic.twitter.com/ssfXyXaU1a
— Theo Fleury (@TheoFleury14) June 10, 2016
Rest in peace Mr. Hockey.
— Gabriel Landeskog (@GabeLandeskog92) June 10, 2016
His elbows were feared but Mr Hockey was admired and respected by everyone he touched. Condolences to the Howe family.
— Chris Cuthbert (@CCtsn) June 10, 2016
Gordie Howe was an incredible player and person. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family today. RIP Mr. Hockey. pic.twitter.com/YFNQZXUMjy
— Yotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) June 10, 2016
#9RIP God Bless thoughts and prayers with the Howe family #elbowsup
— Darcy Tucker (@16DarcyTucker) June 10, 2016
A true legend of the game. You're contributions in life and in hockey will never be forgotten Mr. Howe. Rest in peace.
— Kyle Okposo (@bookerT2116) June 10, 2016
RIP #9
— Jordin Tootoo (@Jtootoo22) June 10, 2016
U were a legend!! my best to all your family #9RIP pic.twitter.com/aayfVicvEj
— Alex Ovechkin (@ovi8) June 10, 2016
