‘It’s losing part of the heritage of hockey’: Gordie Howe talks Winnipeg Jets

WINNIPEG — Gordie Howe, one of the greatest hockey players of all time, died at the age of 88 in his home in Ohio Friday morning.

In honour of his life, Global News Winnipeg dug through archival footage of the hockey star.

In 1995, Howe was in Winnipeg promoting his book And… Howe. The footage shows dozens of fans lining up to get “Mr. Hockey’s” signature.

At the time, Global News sat down with Howe and talked about the departure of the Winnipeg Jets, as the team was about to move to Phoenix in 1996 to become the Coyotes.

Howe said he was disappointed because hockey would be losing part of its history when the team leaves Winnipeg.

“This was a focal point that started a new league,” Howe said. “Bobby Hull came along and it made it possible for the salaries to increase… it’s losing part of the heritage of hockey.”