Dickie Moore, Canadian ice hockey player and businessman (d. 2015)
Richard Winston "Dickie" Moore, born on January 6, 1931, and passing on December 19, 2015, left an indelible mark as a revered Canadian professional hockey player, a highly successful businessman, and a dedicated community philanthropist. His multifaceted contributions solidified his legacy as a true icon, both on the ice and within the Montreal community.
Moore's illustrious National Hockey League (NHL) career was predominantly spent with the formidable Montreal Canadiens, where he was an integral force during their unparalleled dynasty years from 1951 to 1963. During this golden era, he played a crucial role in the Canadiens' capturing six Stanley Cup championships, including an unprecedented five consecutive titles between 1956 and 1960. Known for his tenacious and gritty playing style, Moore was a powerful forward who consistently delivered, often battling through numerous debilitating injuries with remarkable resilience and determination, earning immense respect from teammates and opponents alike.
Individually, Dickie Moore achieved significant acclaim, twice earning the prestigious Art Ross Trophy as the National Hockey League's leading scorer. He first claimed the award in the 1957-58 season with an impressive 84 points (27 goals, 57 assists), followed by a dominant performance in the 1958-59 season where he set a then-NHL record with an outstanding 96 points (41 goals, 55 assists) in a 70-game schedule. These scoring titles underscored his offensive prowess and cemented his reputation as one of the league's elite forwards.
His profound impact on the sport was further recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1974, a testament to his exceptional career achievements and enduring contributions to hockey. Decades later, in 2017, coinciding with the NHL's centennial celebration, Moore was rightfully named one of the '100 Greatest NHL Players' in history, placing him among the pantheon of the sport's all-time legends.
While his most significant contributions were with the Montreal Canadiens, Moore also had brief stints with other NHL franchises. Following a brief retirement, he returned to the ice to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs during the 1964-65 season and later concluded his professional career with the expansion St. Louis Blues in the 1967-68 season, showcasing his enduring passion for the game even in its evolving landscape.
Beyond his celebrated hockey career, Dickie Moore transitioned seamlessly into the business world, achieving remarkable success as an entrepreneur. He founded Dickie Moore Rentals, a prominent equipment rental company in Montreal, which grew into a thriving and well-respected enterprise. His dedication extended to his community, where he was renowned as a passionate philanthropist. Moore actively supported various charitable causes, particularly those benefiting children, consistently demonstrating his generosity and commitment to giving back to the community that had embraced him.
Dickie Moore's legacy is one of exceptional versatility and enduring impact: a powerful hockey player who embodied courage and skill, an astute businessman who built a successful enterprise from the ground up, and a compassionate humanitarian who significantly enriched his community. He remains an inspirational figure whose influence spanned well beyond the hockey rink.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dickie Moore
How many Stanley Cups did Dickie Moore win? Dickie Moore won a total of six Stanley Cup championships with the Montreal Canadiens, including an unprecedented five consecutive titles from 1956 to 1960 and an earlier win in 1953.
What individual awards did Dickie Moore win during his NHL career? Dickie Moore twice won the Art Ross Trophy as the National Hockey League's leading scorer, achieving this honor in the 1957-58 and 1958-59 seasons.
When was Dickie Moore inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame? Dickie Moore was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1974, recognizing his outstanding contributions and achievements in professional hockey.
What was Dickie Moore known for off the ice? Off the ice, Dickie Moore was known as a highly successful businessman who founded and operated Dickie Moore Rentals, an equipment rental company in Montreal. He was also a dedicated community philanthropist, actively supporting various charitable causes, particularly those benefiting children.
Why was Dickie Moore considered one of the '100 Greatest NHL Players'? Dickie Moore was named one of the '100 Greatest NHL Players' in 2017 due to his integral role in the Montreal Canadiens' dynasty, his two Art Ross Trophy wins, his remarkable scoring prowess, and his gritty, determined playing style that made him a formidable and respected force in the league.