DETROIT, MI-- Detroit Red Wings and NHL legend Gordie Howe died this morning in Toledo, Ohio, according to the team. He was 88 years old.
Affectionately known as Mr. Hockey, Howe spent 25 of his 26 NHL seasons with the Red Wings. The team retired his jersey in 1972.
He is second all-time with 801 goals and is eighth all-time with 1,049 assists.
In 1979-80, Howe played his final NHL season with the Hartford Whalers at 51 years old, posting 15 goals and 26 assists.
Here's his final career goal.
Howe suffered a stroke on Oct. 26, 2014, but had recovered and celebrated his 88th birthday in March at Joe Louis Arena.
Howe had suffered from dementia in his later years, and suffered a stroke in October 2014. Stem cell treatment helped him rally from near-death, and celebrations for his last birthday, March 31, included a visit to Joe Louis Arena.
Howe practically is synonymous with the Wings: He played for them from 1946 to 1971, leading them to Stanley Cup championships in 1950, 1952, 1954 and 1955. The team retired his jersey in 1972, and a statue of him graces the concourse at the Joe.
He is second all-time with 801 goals and is eighth all-time with 1,049 assists.
In 1979-80, Howe played his final NHL season with the Hartford Whalers at 51 years old, posting 15 goals and 26 assists.
Here's his final career goal.
Thoughts and prayers to the Howe family as Gordie Howe passes away at the age of 88. #9RIP pic.twitter.com/i9KRzXRgwV
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) June 10, 2016