In the annals of hockey history, few names shine as brightly or with as much lasting influence as Gordie Howe. Known universally as “Mr. Hockey,” Gordie’s long and storied career is filled with unforgettable moments and legendary accomplishments, but perhaps none more touching or uniquely historic than the 1979–80 season — when Gordie suited up alongside his two sons, Mark and Marty Howe, as teammates for the Hartford Whalers in the National Hockey League.
It was a moment that defied time and age, with Gordie Howe playing professional hockey at the astonishing age of 51. After already retiring once and enjoying a second professional chapter in the World Hockey Association (WHA), Gordie wasn’t finished yet. When the WHA folded and the Hartford Whalers joined the NHL, the stars aligned. Father and sons were finally united on the same ice, in the most prestigious league in the world.
It wasn’t just a gimmick — Gordie could still play. He appeared in all 80 regular-season games that year, contributing 15 goals and 26 assists for 41 points, proving that even at an age when most athletes are long since retired, his talent and determination remained razor-sharp. His presence in the locker room and on the bench brought not only invaluable experience but also an awe-inspiring work ethic that influenced everyone around him.
Mark Howe, already blossoming into a future Hall of Fame defenseman, and Marty, a steady and reliable presence, shared unforgettable moments skating with their father. The season became a family saga of grit, legacy, and resilience. From intense battles on the road to emotionally charged home games, fans witnessed something the sport had never seen before: a true generational team effort, forged not just in the fires of competition but in the bonds of blood.
The Howe trio left a mark on the league and on the hearts of fans. Gordie’s final game came during the Whalers’ playoff run against the Montreal Canadiens, officially bringing down the curtain on a career that spanned five decades. Yet it wasn’t just about the numbers or the record books. It was about family, history, and the passing of a torch in a way that no other professional sport has ever experienced.
To this day, hockey enthusiasts tell Gordie tales with reverence — stories of his strength, skill, and unmistakable presence. But of all the stories, the one where Mr. Hockey became more than just a legend — where he became Dad on the bench and linemate on the ice — is perhaps the most iconic of them all.
This unique season with the Hartford Whalers cemented the Howe family’s place in hockey mythology, reminding the world that greatness, when shared with loved ones, becomes eternal.