(VIDEO): NHL Legend appears for the final time in public.

People from the hockey universe payed homage to NHL Legend and Red Wings great Gordie Howe last night in was billed by event organizers as the last public appearance for “Mr. Hockey.” He was honored at the Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Dinner in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The event raises funds for area recreation programs and many hockey other hockey legends were also in attendance. Wayne Gretzky, Bobby Hull and Brett Hull were among the hockey dignitaries present for Howe’s final appearance. According to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN.com chants of “Gordie!”, “Gordie!” were heard throughout the room as it was announced that a local rink in Saskatoon is being renamed the ‘Gordie Howe Kinsman Arena’. Wayne Gretzky was the keynote speaker at the fundraiser and had this to say about Howe: “There’s nothing that you cannot say good about Gordie Howe,” said Gretzky. “That’s the bottom line. He’s just a wonderful hockey player, a tremendous father, and a great person.” Howe grew up in Floral, Saskatchewan and it was a tremendously positive sign that he was able to make the 12 hour back to his old stomping ground. Howe suffered a major stroke last year and also suffers from Dementia. He was initially feared to be close to death, but he has shown significant improvement since undergoing stem-cell treatment in Mexico last month. Gretzky even brought his sons all the way from California to meet Howe. “I wanted my boys to be here to see how special Gordie is and how important he was to me in my life.” Howe was a force to be reckoned with as a player. He was a fierce competitor wherever he played and influenced future NHLers even to this day.The Hall of Famer had 801 goals, 1049 assists and 1850 points in 1767 career NHL games. He also played 419 games in the WHA where he earned an additional 508 points. His longevity is unmatched by anyone and it’s his fighting spirit that seems to be getting hm through his recent troubles. Howe was seen with a smile on his face during the event. Seeing Gordie in the flesh for the very last time is unfortunate, as we all respect and admire him. However, knowing that he is on the path to recovery is comfort enough. It was nice seeing you Mr. Hockey. [iframe id=""]