Dave Gardner NHL Legend and Leaside and Aurora sports Hall of Fame member

On my walk through Aurora Cemetery in Aurora, Ontario, I discovered the grave of Dave Gardner, a Toronto-born centre known affectionately as “Everybody’s Friend.”

Growing up in Leaside, Dave honed his skills with the Toronto Marlies, playing just down the road from home. In his final year with the Marlies, he was named the most outstanding player in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), showcasing his impressive talent on the ice.

Harris / Gardner / Shutt with the Marlies.

Drafted 8th overall in the 1972 Amateur Draft, Dave joined a stellar cohort—his Marlies teammate Billy Harris was picked first by the Islanders, Steve Shutt went fourth to Montreal, and Bill Barber was selected just before him by Philadelphia.

Although Dave’s NHL career lasted only one full season with the Montreal Canadiens before being traded to St. Louis, the league’s expansion gave him opportunities to skate for teams in Oakland and Cleveland. His professional career wrapped up after a brief two-game stint with the Philadelphia Flyers.

Dave Gardner with the Cleveland Barons. Originated as the California Seals. 

Dave Gardner’s hockey legacy runs deep—he is the son of two-time Stanley Cup winner Cal Gardner and the older brother of Paul Gardner, who also enjoyed a successful ten-year NHL career.

Sadly, Dave Gardner died in Newmarket, Ontario on  March 19, 2023. He was 70.

1952-2023