Alan Thicke clearly made an indelible impression on the hockey community.
The Canadian actor and passionate fan of the game died Tuesday at the age of 69, Thicke's publicist confirmed to Christopher Watson from ABC News.
Thicke died in hospital after suffering a heart attack playing hockey with his son, TMZ reported
Players, clubs, and the league itself offered heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late "Growing Pains" star:
I almost believe it's not real. The hockey word lost a great ambassador and I a good friend. Thoughts are with your family @Alan_Thicke
— George Parros (@GeorgeParros) December 14, 2016
I can't believe my friend Alan Thicke passed away. 😓 such a sad day! pic.twitter.com/QfSUFteCHd
— Bailey LA Kings (@BaileyLAKings) December 14, 2016
RIP Alan Thicke. :( https://t.co/EtFX6NswNK
— #LAKings (@LAKings) December 14, 2016
RIP to one of the great ones, Alan Thicke. pic.twitter.com/LvlU13s23h
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) December 14, 2016
The NHL family is sad to learn of the passing of longtime hockey fan Alan Thicke. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/5ADyWRksuf
— NHL (@NHL) December 14, 2016
Very sad to hear the passing of Alan Thicke. Always was pleasure to be around. Thoughts are prayers for his family
— Matt Beleskey (@Matt_Beleskey) December 14, 2016
sad to hear that Alan Thicke Died played many celebrity hockey games with him he loved the game hope he scored one last goal RIP my winger
— MIKE ERUZIONE (@MERUZIONE) December 14, 2016
The master of ceremonies for the very first #TBLightning game to ever be played at Expo Hall.
— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) December 14, 2016
Rest in peace, Mr. Thicke. https://t.co/ZwRx8CUqH2
Thicke's connection to hockey ran deep, from his longtime friendship with Wayne Gretzky to numerous appearances at NHL events and even writing and performing "Hockey Sock Rock" with former NHL stars Phil Esposito, Ron Duguay, Pat Hickey, Dave Maloney, and John Davidson.
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