John Garrett (ice hockey)|John Garrett

John Garrett, beloved son, husband, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in the quiet town of Brantford, Ontario, on June 17, 1951, John grew up with a fierce curiosity for life and a talent that would soon make him a household name on the ice. From a young age, he could be found with a stick in hand, dreaming of the day he’d stand between the nets of the NHL. His dedication paid off when he joined the World Hockey Association and later the NHL, guarding the goal for teams like the Hartford Whalers, Vancouver Canucks, and Quebec Nordiques. But it was his warmth off the ice that truly set him apart. After hanging up his gloves, John’s voice became as familiar to fans as his glovework had been. He stepped into the world of broadcasting with the same tenacity he had shown on the ice, providing insightful commentary that made every game feel like a personal conversation. He never lost that spark of enthusiasm, whether he was analyzing a play or sharing a laugh with a teammate. Friends recall the way he would pause during broadcasts to share a quick anecdote about a childhood prank or a family recipe, reminding everyone that the game was just one part of a richer, fuller life. Family was everything to John. He was a doting husband to his wife, Lillian, whose laugh echoed through their home like a favorite song. Together, they raised two children, Michael and Sarah, who were the pride of his heart. John’s Sunday mornings were a ritual of pancakes, storytelling, and the occasional impromptu hockey lesson for his kids. He taught them that perseverance, humility, and a good sense of humor were the real trophies. Even in his later years, he could be found on the backyard lawn, coaching a neighborhood pick‑up game, his whistle always ready and his grin never fading. John’s legacy extends far beyond the ice and the broadcast booth. He touched countless lives—players he mentored, colleagues he inspired, and fans who found comfort in his steady presence. He volunteered with youth hockey programs, always insisting that the love of the game should be shared, not hoarded. His laugh was infectious, his advice thoughtful, and his generosity boundless. Those who knew him will remember a man who lived with passion, laughed loudly, loved fiercely, and left an indelible mark on everyone he met. In every gloved hand he lifted, in every word he spoke, John Garrett reminded us that the greatest victories are those we share with others.