Unveiling the Mystery: Did Gordie Howe’s Children Pursue Ice Hockey Careers?


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The name Gordie Howe is synonymous with hockey. Widely considered one of the greatest hockey players of all time, Gordie Howe set numerous records throughout his career and inspired countless individuals to take up the sport. However, many people are curious about whether his children followed in his footsteps and pursued ice hockey careers of their own.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the lives of Gordie Howe’s children, Mark, Marty, and Murray, to uncover whether any of them became professional hockey players. We’ll explore the challenges and expectations that come with being the child of a hockey legend, as well as the Howe family’s contribution to the sport of hockey.

So, did any of Gordie Howe’s children ever play ice hockey? Let’s find out.

If you’re a fan of hockey or simply curious about the Howe family’s legacy, keep reading to learn more about their lives on and off the ice.

The Legacy of Gordie Howe and His Children

Gordie Howe’s legacy as one of the greatest hockey players of all time is undeniable. However, the impact of the Howe family on the sport of hockey extends far beyond Gordie’s own career. His children, Mark, Marty, and Murray, have each made their own unique contributions to the game.

In this article, we’ll explore the legacy of Gordie Howe and his children, from their early years on the ice to their lasting impact on the sport.

The Early Years

  • Gordie Howe began his hockey career at a young age, playing for his hometown team, the Saskatoon Elks, before moving on to the Detroit Red Wings.
  • Mark Howe followed in his father’s footsteps, playing for the Red Wings as well as the Philadelphia Flyers and the Hartford Whalers.
  • Marty Howe played for a variety of minor league teams before joining the Houston Aeros, where he won two championships alongside his father.

Their Contributions to the Sport

The Howe family’s impact on hockey extends far beyond their on-ice performances.

  • Gordie Howe inspired generations of players with his toughness, skill, and longevity. His career spanned five decades, and he set numerous records that still stand today.
  • Mark Howe was known for his versatility, playing both defense and forward throughout his career. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011.
  • Marty Howe has dedicated much of his life to coaching and development, helping to shape the next generation of hockey players.

Their Legacy Today

The Howe family’s impact on hockey continues to be felt today, both on and off the ice.

  • Gordie Howe passed away in 2016, but his legacy lives on through the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which will connect Canada and the United States.
  • Mark and Marty Howe continue to be involved in the sport, with Mark serving as a scout for the Red Wings and Marty coaching at the youth level.
  • Murray Howe, the youngest of Gordie’s children, is a physician and author who has written extensively about his father’s life and legacy.

The Howe family’s contributions to hockey are truly remarkable, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players for years to come.

A Glimpse into Gordie Howe’s Personal Life

Gordie Howe was not only a legendary ice hockey player but also a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Despite his busy schedule, he always made time for his family, and they were the center of his world. Howe and his wife, Colleen, were married for 55 years until her passing in 2009. They had four children, two of whom pursued ice hockey careers, and nine grandchildren.

Howe was known for his humility and kindness off the ice, and these qualities extended to his personal life as well. He was a man of simple pleasures, enjoyed spending time with his family, and loved fishing and golfing. His family remembers him as a doting father and grandfather who always put them first.

The Howe Family’s Philanthropic Work

The Howe family was also heavily involved in philanthropic work, and Gordie was passionate about giving back to his community. In 1982, he established the Gordie Howe C.A.R.E.S. (Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Education Society) Foundation, which is dedicated to raising awareness and funding for Alzheimer’s research. This foundation is a testament to Howe’s commitment to using his platform to make a positive impact in the world.

Howe’s Role as a Hockey Ambassador

As one of the greatest ice hockey players of all time, Howe was a revered figure in the sport. He used his status to promote hockey and inspire the next generation of players. He traveled extensively as a hockey ambassador, promoting the game in countries like Japan and Russia. He also served as a mentor to young players, including his own sons, who followed in his footsteps and pursued hockey careers.

Howe’s Legacy Lives On

Gordie Howe may no longer be with us, but his legacy lives on through his family, his philanthropic work, and the countless people he inspired both on and off the ice. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and kindness. For anyone looking to make a positive impact in the world, Gordie Howe’s life is a shining example of what is possible.

Stay tuned to learn more about Gordie Howe and his impact on ice hockey and beyond.

Meet Gordie Howe’s Children

Gordie Howe was not only a legendary hockey player but also a devoted family man. He and his wife Colleen had four children together: Marty, Mark, Cathy, and Murray. Each of the Howe children has their own unique story and accomplishments.

Marty Howe followed in his father’s footsteps and became a professional hockey player. He played in the World Hockey Association and the National Hockey League for several years. After retiring from hockey, Marty became a scout for the Detroit Red Wings and is now a player development coach.

Murray Howe

Murray Howe is the youngest of Gordie and Colleen’s children. He is a medical doctor and has authored a book about his father’s life called “Nine Lessons I Learned from My Father.” Murray also serves as the head of sports medicine imaging for Toledo Radiological Associates.

Cathy Howe

Cathy Howe is the only daughter of Gordie and Colleen. She has dedicated her life to philanthropy and is a founding member of the Howe Foundation, which provides support to families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Cathy has also written a book about her mother’s battle with dementia, titled “After the Applause.”

Mark Howe

Mark Howe is the middle child of Gordie and Colleen. He is also a former professional hockey player and played in both the NHL and WHA. Mark was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 201After retiring from hockey, Mark became a scout for the Red Wings and served as director of pro scouting for several years.

  • Marty Howe followed in his father’s footsteps and became a professional hockey player
  • Murray Howe is a medical doctor and has authored a book about his father’s life
  • Cathy Howe is the only daughter of Gordie and Colleen and has dedicated her life to philanthropy
  • Mark Howe is a former professional hockey player and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011

Did Mark, Marty, or Murray Follow Their Father’s Footsteps?

Gordie Howe was a legendary hockey player, and many people wonder if his children continued his legacy. While none of them achieved the same level of success as their father, they all had notable careers in their own right.

Mark Howe was the eldest son and had a successful career in the NHL as a defenseman. He played for several teams and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 201Murray Howe followed a different path and became a physician, but he still maintained a strong connection to hockey and wrote a book about his father called “Nine Lessons I Learned from My Father.” Marty Howe also played hockey professionally, but his career was shorter than his brother Mark’s.

Mark Howe’s Career

  • Mark Howe played in the NHL from 1979 to 1995.
  • He was a three-time All-Star and won two Stanley Cups.
  • He was known for his defensive skills and had a reputation as a tough player.

Murray Howe’s Career

Murray Howe didn’t follow in his father’s footsteps as a hockey player, but he did have a successful career in medicine. He is currently the head of Sports Medicine Imaging for Toledo Radiological Associates and a clinical assistant professor at the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences. He wrote a book called “Nine Lessons I Learned from My Father” about his relationship with his dad and the lessons he learned from him.

Marty Howe’s Career

  • Marty Howe played in the NHL for four seasons in the 1970s.
  • He played for the Houston Aeros, New England Whalers, and Hartford Whalers.
  • He retired from hockey in 1982 due to injuries.

While none of Gordie Howe’s children achieved the same level of success as their father, they all had impressive careers in their own right. Mark had a successful NHL career, Murray is a well-respected physician, and Marty played professional hockey for several seasons. The Howe family legacy continues to inspire hockey players and fans around the world.

Challenges and Expectations of Being a Hockey Legend’s Child

Being a child of a famous athlete can bring many unique challenges and expectations. When your father is a hockey legend like Gordie Howe, those challenges and expectations can be even more intense. Mark, Marty, and Murray Howe, Gordie’s children, experienced these challenges firsthand.

One of the challenges that the Howe children faced was living up to their father’s legacy. Gordie Howe was one of the greatest hockey players of all time, and his children were often compared to him. This pressure to live up to their father’s name could be overwhelming and sometimes frustrating.

The Burden of Expectations

The Howe children grew up with high expectations from others, but they also had their own expectations to deal with. They wanted to make their father proud and continue his legacy in their own way, but it wasn’t always easy.

Forging Their Own Paths

  • Mark Howe chose to follow in his father’s footsteps and became a professional hockey player. He had a successful career in the NHL, but he also faced challenges as the son of a legend.
  • Marty Howe pursued a career in business and became a successful businessman. He found his own path outside of hockey but still felt the weight of his father’s legacy.
  • Murray Howe became a doctor and followed his own passion outside of hockey. He found fulfillment in his career but also felt the pressure to live up to his father’s name.

The Impact of Their Father’s Legacy

Gordie Howe’s legacy impacted all three of his children in different ways. It brought them together as a family, but it also brought challenges and expectations. Despite these challenges, the Howe children found their own paths and continued their father’s legacy in their own unique ways.

The Howe Family’s Contribution to the Sport of Hockey

The Howe family has played a significant role in the history of ice hockey. Gordie Howe, also known as Mr. Hockey, is considered one of the greatest players of all time. He played for 32 seasons, winning four Stanley Cups and six Hart Trophies. Gordie’s sons Mark, Marty, and Murray also played professional hockey, but did they follow in their father’s footsteps?

While Gordie’s sons may not have achieved the same level of success as their father, they still made a notable impact on the sport of hockey. Mark, who played 10 seasons in the NHL, was a skilled defenseman known for his physical play. Marty played six seasons in the NHL and was known for his tenacity and leadership on the ice. Murray played one season in the NHL before transitioning to coaching and management roles.

Gordie’s Legacy

Gordie Howe’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive hockey career. He was known for his humble nature and dedication to the sport, and his contributions to hockey went beyond his on-ice achievements. Gordie was a mentor and role model to many players and was heavily involved in charitable work. His impact on the sport of hockey continues to be felt today.

Mark, Marty, and Murray’s Contributions

  • Mark Howe was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011 for his exceptional career as a defenseman.
  • Marty Howe is a respected coach and scout, with over 25 years of experience in the NHL.
  • Murray Howe authored a book about his father’s life and legacy, titled “Nine Lessons I Learned from My Father.”

The Future of the Howe Legacy

The Howe family’s legacy in hockey is sure to continue for generations to come. Gordie’s grandchildren, including Travis and Dylan, are currently playing in the minor leagues, and it remains to be seen if they will follow in their family’s footsteps and make a mark in professional hockey. Regardless of what the future holds, the Howe family’s contribution to the sport of hockey will always be remembered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Gordie Howe have children who played ice hockey?

Yes, Gordie Howe had two sons who played ice hockey professionally. His older son Marty Howe played in the World Hockey Association and the National Hockey League, while his younger son Mark Howe played in the NHL and is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. Both sons followed in their father’s footsteps and had successful careers in hockey.

Did Gordie Howe’s daughter play ice hockey?

No, Gordie Howe did not have a daughter who played ice hockey at a professional level. However, his daughter Cathy Howe did play recreational hockey and was a figure skater.

Did any of Gordie Howe’s grandchildren play ice hockey?

Yes, some of Gordie Howe’s grandchildren played ice hockey at various levels. One of his grandsons, Travis Howe, played professional hockey in the minor leagues, while another grandson, Corey Howe, played at the college level.

Did Gordie Howe’s sons ever play on the same team?

Yes, Gordie Howe’s sons Mark and Marty played on the same team in the World Hockey Association for the New England Whalers during the 1977-78 season. They also played together for the Houston Aeros during the 1973-74 season.

Did Gordie Howe’s sons ever play against each other?

Yes, Gordie Howe’s sons Mark and Marty played against each other in the National Hockey League during the 1980-81 season. Mark played for the Philadelphia Flyers while Marty played for the Hartford Whalers.

Did Gordie Howe’s sons win any championships?

Yes, both of Gordie Howe’s sons won championships during their hockey careers. Mark Howe won two Stanley Cup championships with the Detroit Red Wings in 1997 and 1998, while Marty Howe won two Avco Cup championships with the Houston Aeros in 1974 and 1975.

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