His story is one that could never be written again. 

A middle-class boy who grew up on Moose Jaw's East End, just one of the boys, playing hockey on the outdoor rinks and excelling in baseball and football too.  He was a legend in his own neighbourhood and it was a legend that would grow. 

Clark Gillies was playing professional baseball before he was even out of high school, but it was in hockey that his star would truly shine. 

He helped the Regina Pats to a Memorial Cup Championship in 1974 before he was drafted in the first round by the New York Islanders.  He and his teammates would win four consecutive Stanley Cups from 1980 through '83.  He was as Hockey Hall of Famer - larger than life, he was. 

Gillies passed away at the age of 67 last week. 

He will forever be remembered for his success in sport and, here at home, for his philanthropy. 

He gave back more than he ever took.  Gillies' celebrity golf classic raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities. 

He was a man who carried himself with pride, confidence and dignity.  He was an imposing figure who was warm, welcoming, jovial and always kind. 

Clark Gillies was as good as they come.  He was and always will be Moose Jaw's favourite son. 

 

***

From the family: 

On behalf of the entire Gillies family, we want to thank you for all the messages of condolence we have received since Clark's passing. Each and every one of them have touched our hearts and brought us comfort at this very difficult time.

We have had several inquiries about where to make memorial donations. In keeping with the mission of the Clark Gillies Foundation and the work Clark was so passionate about on Long island, anyone wishing to make a donation in memory of Clark can provide support to:

 

Jim Pattison Children's Hospital Foundation

1-345 Third Avenue South

Saskatoon, SK

S7K 1M6

 

Or donate online at: 

https://pattisonchildrens.ca/

 

We appreciate your generosity and we know Clark does too.

The Gillies Family