A trip to the "Mr. Hockey" statue in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan could soon take on a more significant meaning.
The family of Gordie Howe - who was cremated after his death on June 10 - has requested the legend's ashes be interred in the base of the statue bearing his likeness outside the SaskTel Centre, according to The Canadian Press.
Saskatoon city official Catherine Gryba made the following comments in a release:
It's only appropriate that we do what we can to remember this great athlete, Saskatonian, and Canadian.
We've been speaking with the Howe family and will take the appropriate steps to safeguard and respect Gordie and Colleen's ashes. They will be encased in a special concrete vessel with a commemorative plaque on top to protect them.
Howe's wife Colleen passed away in 2009.
In order for the family's request to be approved and the statue declared an official cemetery, the city will file an application to the province of Saskatchewan.
Howe grew up in Saskatoon, and will be feted by the Saskatoon Blades, who play at the SaskTel Centre, on Sept. 25.
