Mark Carney issues statement on passing of Ken Dryden.

The passing of National Hockey League legend Ken Dryden has left many long time hockey fans stunned, with an announcement coming late Friday night confirming that Dryden had pass peacefully after a difficult battle with cancer.

Dryden seemed truly immortal during his brief time backstopping the Montreal Canadiens to a whopping 6 Stanley Cup championships, and it is in large part for that reason that we have seen such an overwhelming outpouring of love and support following yesterday's tragic news.

The news of Dryden's death has reached far beyond the hockey community, with people from all walks of life discussing how Dryden in some way or another had a profound impact on their lives. On Saturday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney joined that chorus of voices when he published a message remembering Dryden through his official social media channels.

"Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Hon. Ken Dryden, a Canadian hockey legend and hall of famer, public servant and inspiration," wrote Carney on Saturday. "He was a 6-time Stanley Cup Champion, 5-time Vezina trophy winner, Minister of Social Development, and dedicated Parliamentarian."

Carney also credited Dryden as a major influence in his own personal hockey journey.

"Ken Dryden was the reason I became a goalie, although I never mastered his ability to lean on his stick let alone keep the puck out of the net," added Carney.

Carney continued his message by detailing what a great example Dryden was for his fellow Canadians and for his country as a whole.

"His return to university at the height of his playing career taught the importance of balance in life," wrote Carney. "His post-hockey career demonstrated the value of public service.

"Few Canadians have given more, or stood taller, for our country.

"Ken Dryden was Big Canada. And he was Best Canada. Rest in peace."

I have no doubt that this is how the legendary Ken Dryden will be remembered by most of his fellow countrymen.