Frank Orr Canadian sports author and journalist

On My Walk: Remembering Frank Orr

On a quiet walk through Park Lawn Cemetery and Mausoleum in Toronto, I came upon the niche of legendary sports writer Frank Orr. Fittingly, his urn is shaped like a novel — a nod to a life filled with words, stories, and unforgettable moments in sports history.

Frank began his journalism career as sports editor with the Guelph Mercury and the Cornwall Standard-Freeholder. In 1961, the Toronto Star came calling, and Frank was hired to cover the NHL — more specifically, the Toronto Maple Leafs. It was the start of a remarkable chapter.

When not writing his daily column, Frank authored more than 30 sports books. Among his most popular titles were Tough Guys of Hockey, Great Goalies of Pro Hockey, Puck is a Four-Letter Word, and World’s Great Race Drivers.

Respected across the country, Frank became one of Canada’s most trusted voices in sports journalism. As one colleague put it:

“Orr had the ear of everyone who mattered in the game. When he walked into a press box, influential figures from Punch Imlach to Bobby Clarke would drop what they were doing and shake his hand.”

Frank Orr passed away in Toronto on February 13, 2021, at the age of 84. He was a proud resident of Etobicoke, a tireless writer, and one of the last great sports storytellers. He now rests beside his beloved wife, Shirley.

1936-2021