Terry Sawchuk NHL legendary goalie

On my walk at Mount Hope Catholic Cemetery in Pontiac, Michigan, with goalie stick and puck in hand, I reunited with the greatest goaltending tandem in Toronto Maple Leafs history: Johnny Bower and Terry Sawchuk.

Terry Sawchuk was born in the north end of Winnipeg to Ukrainian parents. By the time of his untimely death, he had completed 21 NHL seasons, holding the record for most wins (447) and shutouts (103) at the time—a record later surpassed by Martin Brodeur, who finished with 125 shutouts and 691 wins over 22 seasons.

Although Sawchuk played only three seasons with the Leafs from 1964 to 1967, his impact was immense. In 1963, Toronto claimed the unprotected Sawchuk from Detroit, pairing the younger Terry with the seasoned 40-year-old Johnny Bower. Together, they won the Vezina Trophy that very year.

This legendary tandem went on to win the 1967 Stanley Cup, the last time a Maple Leaf hoisted the silver chalice — a triumph that still echoes in the hearts of Leafs fans.

1929-1970

Terry’s glove as seen on display at Little Caesars Arena, Detroit.

Recently attended a game in Detroit and saw all the legends sweaters honoured including Terry.