Wally Stanowski

Wally Stanowski, born on April 28, 1919, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, was a distinguished Canadian ice hockey defenceman. He began his illustrious National Hockey League career with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1939, quickly establishing himself as a formidable player on the ice.

In 1941, Stanowski earned a spot on the NHL All-Star team, showcasing his exceptional skills. Throughout his tenure with the Maple Leafs, he celebrated four Stanley Cup victories, solidifying his legacy within the franchise. Notably, in 1942, he became the first Leaf defenseman to record four points in a playoff game, a franchise record that remains unbroken to this day.

After the 1947-48 season, Stanowski was traded to the New York Rangers, where he continued to make his mark until his retirement following the 1951 season. He was the last surviving member of the Maple Leafs' Stanley Cup teams from 1942 and 1945, a testament to his enduring presence in the sport.

In his later years, Stanowski resided in a retirement home near Toronto, where he lived until his passing on June 28, 2015. At the time of his death, he was recognized as the oldest surviving Maple Leaf. His contributions to the team were honored posthumously when, on October 14, 2016, he was named #66 among the one hundred greatest players in Maple Leafs history.