Ron Hurst, oldest living Maple Leaf, dies at 95
Ron Hurst, the oldest living Toronto Maple Leaf, passed away at 95, leaving behind a legacy in hockey.
Quick answers
What teams did Ron Hurst play for during his NHL career?
Ron Hurst played all 64 of his NHL games for the Toronto Maple Leafs between 1955 and 1957. He also spent time with the Rochester farm team during his career.
What impact did Ron Hurst have on the Maple Leafs during his time?
Known for his aggressive physical style, Ron Hurst earned nicknames like 'Brawny Ronny' and 'The Try Guy'. He contributed 12 points in the 1955-56 season and helped foster team camaraderie.
Ron Hurst’s career and legacy
Ron Hurst, the oldest living Toronto Maple Leaf, passed away at 95. He played all 64 of his NHL games with the Leafs between 1955 and 1957.
Hurst began as a junior player with the Toronto Marlboros in 1949-50. He earned a modest salary of a dollar a day, joining fellow teammate George Armstrong.
In the 1955-56 season, Hurst recorded 12 points in 50 games along with two playoff assists. His playing time diminished the following year due to a stronger forward lineup.
Early influences and playing style
Known for his aggressive playing style, Hurst was nicknamed ‘Brawny Ronny’ and ‘The Try Guy’ by sportswriters. He attributed his mentality to his father, William Hurst, a World War I veteran.
Life after hockey and community contributions
After hockey, Hurst transitioned to a successful career as a stockbroker and real estate agent. He and his wife, Beryl, eventually bought a farm outside Toronto.
In the 1970s, he became a notable contributor to the hockey community, helping to establish the monthly NHL Alumni Lunch in Toronto. Hurst regularly attended and spoke at these events.
Tributes and remembrances
Tributes have poured in for Hurst following his passing. Paul Patskou, a hockey video archivist and luncheon director, praised his contributions to the game.
Patskou remarked on Hurst’s style, stating he represented the kind of aggressive winger that contemporary teams could benefit from. Hurst took pride in being the Leafs’ oldest alumnus.
Hurst’s legacy is marked by his time on the ice and his commitment to the hockey community. His contributions will be remembered by friends, family, and fans.
For related context, see recent NHL line usage.
Reporting for this story draws on Pro Hockey Rumors.
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