Francis “King” Clancy & Harold E. Ballard Inseparable best friends

King Clancy & Harold Ballard: A Hockey Friendship for the Ages

On my walk through Mt. Hope Catholic Cemetery in Toronto, I came upon the grave of one of the most beloved figures in Toronto Maple Leafs history—defenceman, King Clancy and his best friend, Harold Ballard at Park Lawn Cemtery.

Photo taken before and after the Ballard gravestone was cleaned. 

For generations of fans, Saturday nights at the old Maple Leaf Gardens weren’t complete without the familiar sight of Clancy and Ballard sitting side-by-side in Harold’s infamous gold-section bunker. Whether the Leafs were winning or losing, the two were always there—laughing, debating, and living every second of the game.

King Clancy was more than just a Hall of Fame player—he was a coach, an executive, and the heart of the Leafs organization for decades. His infectious energy, humour, and love for the game made him a fan favourite and a cherished part of Toronto’s hockey fabric.

When Clancy passed away in 1986, Harold Ballard was devastated. In a moving tribute, he had their box at Maple Leaf Gardens closed, draped it in black, and hung a wreath in memory of his best friend. It was a powerful and emotional image.

King Clancy’s funeral procession driving by his beloved Maple Leaf Gardens, 1986. 

King Clancy died in Toronto on November 8, 1986. He was 84.
Harold Ballard died less than 4 years later on April 11, 1990.

1902-1986 (Francis)
1903-1990 (Harold)