AN ICONIC goaltender who helped a franchise win its lone two Stanley Cup titles has died.
Philadelphia Flyers legendary goalie Bernie Parent died Sunday.
An NHL legend has died at the age of 80[/caption]
The Philadelphia Flyers announced the death of Pro Hockey Hall of Fame goalie Bernie Parent[/caption]
Parent died at the age of 80, the Flyers announced.
A cause of death has yet to be revealed.
The NHL franchise described Parent as a “true legend, one of the most famous and beloved players, and most popular figures in the history of the organization and city of Philadelphia.”
Parent played 10 of his 13 seasons with the Flyers.
“The legend of Bernie Parent reached far beyond the ice and his accolades,” the Flyers continued in the statement.
“Bernie had a deep love for Philadelphia and fans of the Flyers.
“He was passionate about his role as an ambassador for Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education and inspired an entire generation of hockey fans.
“He dedicated his time, energy and enthusiasm to not only grow the game, but also to spread joy to anyone he encountered.
“Anyone who had the pleasure of being around Bernie always walked away with a smile. He will be dearly missed.”
Parent began his career with the Boston Bruins before being selected by the Flyers in the 1967 expansion draft.
He’d play for the Flyers for three-plus years before getting traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1971.
But one season later, Parent joined the Philadelphia Blazers of the Western Hockey Association before seeing his rights sent to the Flyers by the Maple Leafs.
Parent’s career would become legendary as he led the Flyers to two Stanley Cup victories.
He received the Conn Smythe Trophy in both playoff runs.
And Parent won two Vezina awards in those two years as well.
In 1984, he became the first player in Flyers history to earn a nod to the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Parent’s No.1 was also retired as he’s in Philly’s Hall of Fame.
Unfortunately, his career ended in 1979 due to a stick that went through the hole in his mask by his right eye during a game against the New York Rangers.
Fans have sent their social media messages for the late Parent.
“RIP Bernie,” one wrote.
“You will be sorely missed,” another commented.
“A true Flyers icon, forever in our hearts,” a third said.
