Hockey Legend Gordie Howe Attends Hershey Bears Game

Wednesday night’s Hershey Bears game was your typical Bears win, with 10,801 fans cheering on as John Mitchell would win the game in the shootout for the Chocolate and White. But high above the rink at Giant Center, one of the greatest players to ever lace up the skates watched the game.

Gordie Howe played in six decades in professional hockey. It’s been 15 years since he skated with the Detroit Vipers for one shift at the age almost 70-years-old. Now, the 85-year-old legend lives in Michigan with family after losing his wife to in 2009.

Next to Wayne Gretzky, Howe is arguably the greatest player in NHL history with four Stanley Cups; 23 All-Star appearances; six Art Ross and Hart Trophies; and the records for most NHL regular-season games played (1,767) and most NHL seasons played (26, tied with Chris Chelios). He finished his career with 1,850 points, third only to Gretzky and Mark Messier, and 801 goals, second to Gretzky.

HERSHEY, PA – Gordie Howe has fun with a Bears fan during intermission of the Hershey Bears – Syracuse Crunch game Wednesday night (Kyle Mace / Sweetest Hockey on Earth)

“Mr. Hockey” was at the game with his son, Mark, who is a scout for the Red Wings. Not many people were aware that Howe was at the game, including the Bears. “I heard he was coming, but I thought it was this weekend,” said head coach Mike Haviland after the game. “Certainly one of the best players to ever play the game so that’s pretty special.”

Brandon Segal also learned that Howe was watching him take in the game. “It’s pretty amazing, he’s still coming to all of these games. I’m sure he just loves coming and watching and just being a part of the action.”

The Hall of Famer took photos with fans (including myself) all night long, spending time to talk to each one. He has attended a Bears game before, taking in another Hershey win on December 27th, 2009.