NHL's oldest living former player passes away in Mattawa

The man who was the NHL’s oldest living former player for just over a year has passed away.

John “Chick” Webster passed away yesterday (Thursday) at the age of 97 at his home in Mattawa.

Webster was a World War II army veteran who served in Europe.

After returning home from the war, he played 14 games in the NHL for the New York Rangers before suffering a broken hand in the 15th game against Detroit.

Last year he told us a hockey great was on the ice that night.

“The only good thing about me getting my broken arm, I was playing against Gordie Howe. I don’t know if it was worth a broken arm or not, but I got to know him,” Webster said, pointing out it was one of Howe’s linemates that was involved.

A remembrance service will take place at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 254 in Mattawa on February 3rd from 2 to 4 pm.

Click here for a link to Webster’s obituary.

On social media, Mattawa Mayor Dean Backer says Webster “was the most friendly, joyful and classiest man you could ever encounter. He will be missed dearly!”

He says Mattawa has “lost another pillar”.

(File Photo – submitted)