Like the rest of you, I too am the mourning the loss of “Johnny Hockey” or as I call him “Johnny Calgary.”
I didn’t move to Calgary until April 2021 but I live near The Red Mile and immediately felt his presence at every bar, pub, and restaurant along 17th Avenue. I also attended many games in which he played including during his final playoff games as a Flame.
I’m attending the memorial this evening and instead of leaving a hat, Skittles, or Gatorade; I decided to leave a note saying what I’d like to say to Johnny if given the chance.
I wanted to share it with all of you as well as we mourn together.
by WheelFan416
2 Comments
I wrote a letter too today, to try and put my grief into words, just like yours – literally, because I also moved here from Hamilton too back in 2018. I was a Flames fan surrounded by mostly Leafs fans but it was cool to people out east; at least some people said they liked us as a 2nd favourite team because of guys like Johnny. I remember having so much fun, staying up late to watch games because of the time difference and saving up enough to finally move here. Just the thought of seeing him and the team play in person with only a short walk to the Dome felt like a dream come true that has never worn off. I slipped my letter I wrote in with my favourite Flames hat I wore throughout the 2010’s and left it at the memorial tonight. Thanks for sharing your letter, I hope that the sheer number of letters and love sent will help his family heal in time, and all of us who are also grieving.
Converted leafs fan here. I feel the same