Legendary 22 year NHL veteran Dean Prentice passes away

In case you missed the news yesterday, former 22 year NHL veteran Dean Prentice has died at age 87 at his home in Cambridge, Ontario.

Prentice played in the NHL for over two decades, suiting up for the New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Minnesota North Stars and Pittsburgh Penguins.

The native of Schumacher, Ontario put up 391 goals and 860 points in 1378 career NHL games. He has the distinction of being the first player in NHL history to score 20 goals or more in one season for five teams. Incredible.

Dean’s brother Eric Prentice remains the youngest player to ever suit up for the Toronto Maple Leafs, inking a contract at just 17 years old. Interestingly enough, Eric’s son, Dean’s nephew, was former Alberta Premier, the late Jim Prentice.

Read below for Dean Prentince’s obituary courtesy of his family:

Surrounded by his family, Dean went to be with his Lord on Saturday November 2, 2019, at the age of 87. Beloved husband and soul mate for 65 years, he leaves behind June Elizabeth Prentice (nee Collier). Cherished father to daughter Kelly (John) Brewer and their children, Elisa (Brandon) Singh, Daniel (Katelyn), and Philip (Taylor) and daughter Kerry (Peter) Faus and their children Trevor, Trent, Kyle (Elizabeth), and Mackenzie. Loving O’papa to Lukas and Wyatt Singh, and Emmersyn Brewer.

Born October 5, 1932, in Schumacher, Ontario, Dean played his junior hockey with the Guelph Biltmore Madhatters, winning the Memorial Cup in 1952 and launching his 22 year NHL career. There were many thrilling moments in the legend’s history with the New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburg Penguins and Minnesota North Stars. After returning to Ontario 1977, Dean became Recreational Director for the community of Ayr. Then in 1988 as missionaries of Forward Church (Cambridge), Dean and June joined Hockey Ministries International staff team.

In his retirement years, Dean’s joy of life was time spent with his family. During his short stay at Granite Landing, the family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff and resident Marcel, for their care and support of dad. Cremation has taken place. In celebration of Dean’s life, relatives and friends are invited to Forward Church, 55 Franklin Blvd., Cambridge, Ontario N1R 5S2, on Friday, November 22, 2019 at 1pm, reception to follow. The family will receive visitation from 7-9pm on Thursday, November 21, 2019 and 12-1pm on Friday, November 22, 2019 at Forward Church.