The hockey world is mourning the loss of former NHL player Forbes Kennedy, who passed away at the age of 90. A respected player, coach, and beloved figure within Canada’s East Coast hockey community, Kennedy leaves behind a remarkable legacy defined by dedication, toughness, leadership, and a lifelong passion for the game.
Born in New Brunswick and raised in Prince Edward Island, Forbes Kennedy developed his love for hockey at an early age. He played junior hockey in Charlottetown and Halifax before joining the renowned Montreal Jr. Canadiens organization. His talent and determination earned him the opportunity to enter professional hockey in 1956 with the Chicago Black Hawks.
Kennedy made his NHL debut on October 11, 1956, against the Detroit Red Wings and quickly established himself as a hardworking and dependable player. In his rookie season, he recorded 21 points and finished fourth in Calder Memorial Trophy voting as one of the league’s top rookies. Over the course of his NHL career, Kennedy also played for the Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers, and Toronto Maple Leafs, appearing in 603 regular-season NHL games.
Following his NHL years, Kennedy continued his professional career with the Buffalo Bisons, helping the club capture the 1970 Calder Cup championship. He later returned to the East Coast, where he devoted himself to coaching and mentoring young players, continuing to shape the sport he loved.
Kennedy was inducted into the Prince Edward Island Sports Hall of Fame and later became an inaugural inductee into the Maritime Sport Hall of Fame, honors reflecting the enormous impact he had on hockey throughout the region.
Remembered for his resilience, humility, and love of the game, Forbes Kennedy touched generations of players, teammates, and fans. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he influenced both on and off the ice.