Gentleman Johnny Bower

[irv]

Originally Posted by nicknock-2013

I know people post buy and sell here in this forum, but just feel the need to post a hockey story. If it's inappropriate I apologize ahead of time. I'll remove it if it is...

After a long and often times disappointing pro career, Johnny Bower never gave up. Nicknamed "The Great China Wall" Bower finally got his due by being elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1976.
Winning three Stanley Cups with Toronto. Anyway his career is there for all to catch up on, but this is about his continuing popularity among fans of the game.
I recently sent a color photo previously signed by the Golden Jet, Bobby Hull. The photo features he and Bower in an an action shot. I asked him to sign it for me, which he did, and he inserted a note about Bobby Hull's famous slap shot.
It read, " Neil, I was once asked about Bobby Hull's developing another type of shot, I told the reporter, he needs another shot like I need a hole in the head, which I may yet get."
He added two other signed photo cards to the return package, but the note is what I'll treasure the most. This is just one of the reasons he remains a fan favorite. A normal guy, no pretense or ego about him at all.
Recently suffered a loss, came home the other day to find the package in my accumulated mail. Made me smile, needed that.
Thanks Johnny.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Great story, Neil.

Thanks for sharing.

[jb217676]

Bower is awesome! Still does card shows around Toronto. Last one I saw him at the promoter had a birthday cake for him!

[irv]

Originally Posted by jb217676

Bower is awesome! Still does card shows around Toronto. Last one I saw him at the promoter had a birthday cake for him!

Nice!

Of the 47 Leaf Beehives I own, unfortunately, I don't have a Johnny Bower card/picture.

[brian1961]

Neil,

First and foremost, I am very sorry for your personal loss. Hang in there, bro. I was really glad to read your Johnny Bower anecdote. I grew up in the Chicagoland area in the 60s as a Black Hawk fan. I came to admire and respect the play of a lot of the opposing players, among them being your hero, Mr. Bower. A genuine Hall-of-Famer, as a player, and as a man!

Again, I'm sincerely sorry for your loss. --Brian Powell

[irv]

Yes, sorry for your loss, Neil.

I meant to comment earlier but got caught up in Mr. Bower and forgot to offer my condolences.

My apologies.