Friday, the hockey world lost a man who belongs on the Mount Rushmore of the game. Gordie Howe died at age 88. On Tuesday, family, friends and fans will have the opportunity to say goodbye, when a public visitation is scheduled to take place at Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena from 9am to 9pm.
From the team’s release:
Though the Howe Family has made it a priority to allow the public to pay tribute to the hockey legend, the organization would like to emphasize that all media and fans continue to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.
Fans will be able to park in the Riverfront Executive Lot (located directly west of Joe Louis Arena) or in the Joe Louis Arena Garage (900 W. Jefferson Ave.) and enter the building at street level through the arena’s west entrance. The Howe Family will be present to greet the public, and Gordie Howe will lie in state inside the arena bowl.
After paying respects at ice level, the public will have the option to head to the concourse level of the arena to view the Gordie Howe statue. A member of the Red Wings video team will also be stationed on the concourse level for fans who wish to share a memory of Gordie Howe.
Fans who want to offer a tribute, but cannot attend the visitation are encouraged by the team and family to visit Facebook.com/GordieHoweTributes to offer their thoughts.
The funeral, also open to the public, will take place the following day at 11am at the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Detroit.
Mr. Hockey’s legend is second to none, as was shown by the outpouring of tears and stories following the announcement of his death on Friday.
