Ray Getliffe, Canadian ice hockey player (d. 2008)

The Enduring Legacy of Raymond Getliffe: A Hockey Pioneer

Born Raymond Getliffe on April 3, 1914, in the vibrant hockey hotbed of Galt, Ontario (now known as Cambridge, Ontario), he would go on to carve out a remarkable career as a professional ice hockey left winger. Getliffe's journey through the sport saw him don the jerseys of two of the National Hockey League's most storied franchises, leaving an indelible mark across 10 seasons before his passing on June 15, 2008. From his early days playing with the Saint John St. Peters, Getliffe's talent was evident, promising a future on ice that would be punctuated by major triumphs and memorable moments.

A Storied NHL Career: From Bruins to Canadiens

Raymond Getliffe's professional career began with the Boston Bruins, a team with whom he would achieve his first taste of ultimate hockey glory. His tenacious play and skill as a left winger made him a valuable asset, contributing to the Bruins' success. However, it was with the Montreal Canadiens, one of hockey's most iconic teams, that Getliffe truly cemented his place in the annals of the sport. His tenure with the Canadiens brought further accolades and some truly spectacular individual performances.

• Stanley Cup Victories: Getliffe's name is etched twice on the coveted Stanley Cup, a testament to his impact on championship-winning teams. He first hoisted the Cup in 1939 with the Boston Bruins, a significant achievement for any player. His second triumph came in 1944 with the Montreal Canadiens, showcasing his enduring quality and ability to contribute to elite teams over the years. These victories underscore his role in two distinct eras of NHL dominance for these legendary franchises.
• A Five-Goal Feat: One particular night stands out in Raymond Getliffe's career for its sheer individual brilliance. On February 6, 1943, while playing for the Montreal Canadiens, Getliffe achieved a rare feat in professional ice hockey, scoring an incredible five goals in a single game. This extraordinary display of offensive prowess remains a highlight of his playing career and a remarkable entry in the Canadiens' storied history.

Life After Hockey and Final Years

After concluding his distinguished playing career, Raymond Getliffe didn't stray far from the game he loved. He briefly transitioned into officiating, serving as an NHL referee, allowing him to maintain his connection to the high-stakes world of professional hockey from a different vantage point. Once fully retired from the demanding life of hockey, Getliffe and his wife, Lorna, made their home in Montreal for many years, a city that had become deeply intertwined with his professional success. In 1990, the couple decided to move to London, Ontario, the city where Getliffe had grown up, bringing his life's journey full circle.

Raymond Getliffe passed away in London, Ontario, on June 15, 2008, at the age of 94, following a battle with liver cancer. His death marked the end of an era for many who remembered his contributions to the sport. At the time of his passing, he was believed to be the oldest living former Montreal Canadiens player, a testament to his longevity and the rich history he represented.

The "Oldest Living NHL Alumnus" Discussion

Upon Getliffe's death, reports widely claimed that he was the oldest living NHL alumnus, approximately four months older than former New York Ranger and Chicago Blackhawk Clint Smith. This distinction, while widely circulated, sparked a subtle historical debate. It was later clarified that these reports had inadvertently overlooked several players who, while perhaps not playing as many games as Getliffe or Smith, had indeed played in the NHL. Names such as Louis Holmes and Al Suomi, among others, were noted to have potentially outlived Getliffe within the broader definition of an NHL alumnus. Regardless of this nuanced historical footnote, Raymond Getliffe's remarkable career, his Stanley Cup victories with both the Boston Bruins and Montreal Canadiens, and his memorable five-goal game firmly establish his place as a significant figure in Canadian professional ice hockey history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Raymond Getliffe

Who was Raymond Getliffe?

Raymond Getliffe was a Canadian professional ice hockey left winger who played 10 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Boston Bruins and Montreal Canadiens.

When and where was he born?

He was born on April 3, 1914, in Galt, Ontario (now Cambridge, Ontario).

Which NHL teams did Raymond Getliffe play for?

He played for the Boston Bruins and the Montreal Canadiens.

How many Stanley Cups did Raymond Getliffe win?

Raymond Getliffe won the Stanley Cup twice: in 1939 with the Boston Bruins and in 1944 with the Montreal Canadiens.

What was one of his most notable individual achievements?

On February 6, 1943, while playing for the Montreal Canadiens, he scored an impressive five goals in a single game.

What did he do after retiring from playing hockey?

After his playing career, Getliffe briefly officiated in the NHL as a referee.

When and where did Raymond Getliffe pass away?

He died on June 15, 2008, in London, Ontario, at the age of 94 from liver cancer.

Was he the oldest living NHL alumnus at the time of his death?

While initially reported as such, later reports indicated that some players who had played a limited number of games in the NHL, such as Louis Holmes and Al Suomi, may have been older, leading to a nuanced discussion about the definition of "oldest living NHL alumnus."