Forbes Kennedy, the rugged forward whose name still resonates in the halls of Prince Edward Island’s hockey heritage, died this week at the age of 90. His passing marks the end of an era for a generation that grew up watching his relentless style and charismatic presence.
Born in Dorchester, New Brunswick, Kennedy moved to PEI as an infant, where the sport quickly became a family tradition. He would later become a folk hero on the island, known affectionately as “Forbie” and celebrated for his larger‑than‑life persona both on and off the rink.
Between 1956 and 1969 he skated for five NHL franchises — including the Chicago Black Hawks, Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers and Toronto Maple Leafs — compiling 178 points and 888 penalty minutes. His physical brand of play made him a feared opponent and a fan favorite.
One of the most talked‑about moments came during the 1969 Stanley Cup Playoffs when Kennedy clashed with Bruins goaltender Gerry Cheevers in a melee that stretched over half an hour. The incident resulted in a four‑game suspension and remains a vivid illustration of his willingness to fight for his team.
After hanging up his skates, Kennedy stayed deeply involved in the sport, serving as a coach, mentor to younger players, and eventually owning a local bar that became a gathering place for aspiring athletes. In 1968 he was inducted into the Prince Edward Island Sports Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a pillar of the community.
Tributes have poured in from former teammates and rivals alike. Hall of Famers such as Phil Esposito, Bobby Orr and Johnny Bucyk have spoken of Kennedy’s influence on their own careers, while coaches like Pat Quinn and Gerry Gallant highlighted his role as a teacher of the game’s gritty fundamentals.
Beyond the rink, Kennedy’s legacy lives on in the countless youngsters who grew up hearing stories of his battles and his unwavering commitment to fair play. His name will continue to appear on community programs, youth leagues and the very fabric of PEI’s hockey culture.
A Lasting Influence
The outpouring of grief and celebration reflects more than just a player’s statistics; it underscores a life lived with passion, resilience and a deep love for the game. As the hockey world mourns, many also look forward, drawing inspiration from Kennedy’s example of perseverance and community spirit.