Walter Gretzky the father of Wayne Gretzky is acknowledged by the crowd as his image is shown on the scoreboard during a Toronto Maple Leafs game. Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

Walter Gretzky, father of NHL legend Wayne Gretzky, dies at 82

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 3/5/21

NHL legend Wayne Gretzky announced late Thursday night that his father, Walter Gretzky, died after a battle with Parkinson's Disease. He was 82-years-old.

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— Wayne Gretzky (@WayneGretzky) March 5, 2021

Walter Gretzky played a significant role in Wayne's hockey career. He served as his son's personal coach growing up, helping him focus on anticipating the action and refining his shooting skills.

The 82-year-old was born in Ontario and was named to the Order of Canada in 2007 "for his contributions to minor hockey in Canada and for his dedication to helping a myriad of local, provincial and national charities."

Walter played junior and senior hockey growing up in Canada but never played at the pro level.

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