http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/Co...id=968332188492

quote:

Phyllis Gretzky remembered fondly Dec. 20, 2005. 08:33 PM BRANTFORD, Ont. (CP) — Flags flew at half-mast on city buildings Tuesday in the hometown of Wayne Gretzky as local residents mourned the death of his mother Phyllis. As visitation took place at a local funeral home, residents signed books of condolences at the local arena and city hall. "She's a family person and always has been friendly," neighbour Patricia O'Leary told Global News. "We'll miss her greatly around here." Sportswriter Ted Beare, who met the Gretzkys a number of times, added: "A lot of the values in life which the Gretzkys are known for ... I'm sure they were instilled in them by Phyllis." Gretzky died Monday night at the age of 64 after a battle with lung cancer. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said the hockey world is grieving with her family. "Phyllis Gretzky's influence on her family no doubt matches Wayne's impact on hockey," Bettman said in a statement. "She taught tenaciousness and teamwork, hard work and humility, respect for people and for the game. Her legacy is defined daily by the way Wayne, and all her children, have shared those lessons in every area of their lives." Conservative Leader Stephen Harper also offered the family his support while campaigning in London, Ont., where Wayne's uncle Al Gretzky is a Conservative candidate. "We all know because it's all been on the news about the sad loss that the Gretzky family has faced in the last few days," Harper said. "We ... all want Al to know and to pass on to all his relatives that they're in our thoughts and our prayers." Wayne Gretzky took a leave of absence from his job as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes on Saturday to fly home as his mother's condition worsened. She died at Brantford General Hospital surrounded by her five children at about 10 p.m. ET Monday following a bout of pneumonia that resulted in her being admitted into hospital Thursday. The funeral will take place Thursday at 10:30 a.m. ET at Grace Anglican Church in Brantford.

She will indeed be missed over the holidays. She was a big part of our community (especially in Brantford).

I actually knew her personally...she was such a wonderful, kind lady.

My condolences to her family.

___________________
Rapture tastes so sweet

Wanted by many, taken by none, looking at some, but waiting for one.