National funeral in Montreal for Canadiens legend Guy Lafleur

Guy Lafleur, Montreal Canadiens legend, was remembered Tuesday at a national funeral as a father and teammate. He also was an example of extraordinary generosity that inspired generations of Quebecers on and off the ice.

Martin Lafleur, his son, described his father’s love for his family as someone who would make time for them and care about everyone, “even those he didn’t know.”

The crowd at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, downtown Montreal heard his confession. He said that although his father was not perfect, he did all he could to make sure his brother and mother were happy. “Thank you Dad for all the good things you have done for us, we love and appreciate you,” he said. said.

Hockey Hall of Famers Yvon Cournoyer and Guy Carbonneau, as well as Patrick Roy, were among those who paid tribute to the Habs legend.

“Guy once saidRobinson said, “Play each game as if they were your last.” said. Guy is the best person to embody that philosophy.

“He played each game to its maximum, but he tried to live every day off the ice.”

Carbonneau recalled how he arrived at his first Canadiens training camp, and had to pinch himself when Lafleur was asked him to play. Lafleur was already the winner of four Stanley Cups consecutively and a number of individual awards.

“In spite that, he did all he could to make sure I felt at home,” said the former captain. said. Guy Lafleur was a star, but also one the boys. He was one of my most kind and open-minded people that I’ve ever met.

Geoff Molson, Canadiens president thanked Lafleur because he had inspired three generations. Lafleur was described as someone who made time for everyone, including his fans, and as being “the best player on a best team in the entire world.”

The Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Quebec Premier Francois Levault and many former Montreal Canadiens hockey players were among those who attended. Quebec singer Ginette Reno also performed.

On Tuesday morning, hundreds of fans gathered around the church to block the streets. Many wore Lafleur’s number 10, in tribute to one the game’s greatest stars. They broke into shouts of “Guy!” Guy! Guy!” Guy!”

As the casket was being carried down the aisle, music was played. The altar was decorated with white flowers and bouquets of fresh flowers.

The church was filled with tributes, which ranged from touching to hilarious, just before the traditional Catholic ceremony led by Archbishop Christian Lepine.

Roy had a good time recalling Lafleur’s 1989 return to Montreal Forum, when Lafleur retired to play for New York Rangers. He said, “It was so magic that he scored two goals against me, I got a ovation.” said.

Four-time Stanley Cup winner Lafleur described his encounter with him during one of his first practices, 1984. The legendary player tapped him on the pads. said, “Hey kid. “Welcome to the Canadiens!” He saidThis was Lafleur’s trademark, as he always found time to share a kind word with his teammates or take a picture with fans.

Roy: “He took the extra time because he understood that those few words would make all the difference.” said.

Serge Savard is Lafleur’s friend and former teammate. saidBefore the ceremony, Lafleur stated that even though he was the league’s best scorer and player, he always put his team first.

“He was a team guy. Savard said, “He never felt greater than the team.” saidThe church from the outside. “He was a great, humble star.”

Savard saidLafleur noted that he made a significant impact wherever he went, noting that funds had been raised for the hospital which treated him in his last months of life.

Trudeau was accompanied by his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau. saidLafleur was greatly appreciated at the funeral.

Trudeau, Trudeau, “All the wins. said. “His extraordinary contribution to the world was an inspiration to all of us.”

Lafleur, also known as “The Flower” or “Le Demon Blond”, was a member of the NHL Hall of Fame and a five-time Stanley Cup winner, having previously played for the Canadiens and New York Rangers.

Hockey club The Canadiens saidThe Lafleur Family released a statement saying that they accepted a funeral at the national level as a way of sharing their grief with the community, out of respect for those who supported Lafleur throughout the years.

This report from The Canadian Press was published for the first time May 3, 2022.