NHL's oldest ex-player dies in Mattawa

The man believed to be the oldest surviving ex-NHLer, Chick Webster, died yesterday in Mattawa. He was 97.

Born in Toronto, Webster played 14 games for the Rangers in the 1949-50 season, did not score any goals or get any assists, but racked up four minutes in penalties.

He moved to Mattawa in 1969 where his wife’s parents lived.

"The whole community is mourning the loss of Chick," Mattawa Mayor Dean Backer told BayToday. "He was a true gentleman, scholar, humble and a good guy. He lived a good life."

Backer remembers his friend well.

"He was always at the arena, always joyful and being positive to all the kids. He was an avid ambassador for Mattawa especially to all the little guys who came to the rink for minor hockey.

"I for one will miss our chats about family, Mattawa and our beloved Toronto Maple Leafs!" Backer remembered.

Webster's nickname, Chick, was given to him in his playing days for his love of chewing Chiclets gum. He was known for his stickhandling abilities.

After joining the Rangers at age 29, a broken wrist ended his career with the team and he finished his career in the minors, retiring in 1953.

The Chick Webster Award, sits in the trophy case at the Mike Rodden Arena for players in the town who demonstrate leadership and respect, and an autographed picture of Webster hangs in a spot of honour behind the cash register at Mattawa's Mr Gas location.

Chick was an Army Veteran of the Second World War, serving with the 3rd Division’s 13th field artillery, first as a gunner then he became a forward observer says his obituary.

He served in England, France, Germany, Holland and the North Sea, and was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Mattawa, Branch 254 for the past 47 years.

Chick played junior hockey in Toronto for the Native Sons from 1937-39, then he played with five different pro and semi-pro leagues; EHL, AHL, NHL, PCHL, WHL between 1940-52. 

Later he retired as a member of the Cincinnati Mohawks in 1952. Chick also played baseball in Toronto and area and for the NHL all-stars. Later he worked for Da Havilland in Toronto, prior to moving to Mattawa.

His wife, Leona, died in 2009 of Alzheimer’s disease.

His brother Don also played briefly in the NHL with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1943.

There will be a time of Remembrance at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #254 on Saturday February 3rd, from 2-4 p.m. 

Sports reporter Ken Pagan tweeted, "With Chick Webster's passing, the NHL's oldest living player is Jim Conacher, 96, who played for the Red Wings, Blackhawks and Rangers from 1945-53. He was born in Scotland, raised in Toronto and now lives in Vancouver."