IBL mourns passing of Meeker, who was league's oldest alum

Howie Meeker passed away on Sunday at the age of 97. Photo: Intercounty Baseball League

November 9, 2020

Official Intercounty Baseball League News Release

CAMBRIDGE - The Intercounty Baseball League is mourning the loss of former Kitchener Legionnaire (Panthers) alumni Howie Meeker at the age of 97.

An accomplished IBL player, Meeker suited up for the Kitchener Legionnaires from 1946-1950. In 1948 he recorded the most walks in a single season with 29.

Not only did Meeker excel on the field but also more famously on the ice, spending his entire eight-year NHL career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, playing in 346 games. Meeker still holds the NHL record for goals in one game by a rookie (5), and would be awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie upon the conclusion of the 1946-47 season.

A legendary Hockey Night in Canada broadcaster, a recipient of both the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award and the Order of Canada, Meeker also served as a member of Parliament for Waterloo South.

Meeker is survived by his wife Leah, his six children - daughters Jane Tucker (husband Walter), Peggy Barbour, Kim Horwood and sons Howie Jr., Mike & Andy - 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, his sisters-in-law Jean Meeker and Anne Hammer, brother-in-law Ken Hammer and many beloved nieces, nephews and friends. A memorial will be held in New Hamburg, Ontario at a future date.

Our deepest sympathies go out to his family.