Philadelphia and the Hockey World Mourn the Loss of a Legend: Bernie Parent Dead at 80

Philadelphia and the Hockey World Mourn the Loss of a Legend: Bernie Parent Dead at 80

Philadelphia, PA — September 21, 2025

The city of Philadelphia, the National Hockey League, and fans around the world are in mourning following the death of Bernard “Bernie” Parent, one of the greatest goaltenders in hockey history. Parent, 80, passed away overnight in his sleep. His passing was confirmed by the Philadelphia Flyers.

A Hall of Famer’s Storied Career

Bernie Parent’s name is forever etched into the foundation of the Flyers franchise and the broader fabric of NHL lore. Beginning his professional career with the Boston Bruins in 1965, Parent’s early years saw him move through teams — including the Toronto Maple Leafs — before returning to Philadelphia, where he reached his highest heights.

It was during the 1973–74 and 1974–75 seasons that Parent was nothing short of dominant, backstopping the Flyers to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships. In both those seasons, he earned the Vezina Trophy (awarded to the NHL’s best goaltender) and the Conn Smythe Trophy (playoff MVP) — a rare dual feat.

In what many regard as two of the finest seasons ever by a goalie, Parent recorded shutouts in the Final games of both Cup championships — blanking the Boston Bruins in 1974 and the Buffalo Sabres in 1975.

Beyond the Ice: An Enduring Legacy

Parent’s career was not only defined by titles and trophies, but by his character, his connection to Philadelphia, and his lasting contributions to the sport. After injuries — including a serious eye injury in 1979 that ended his playing days — he remained a figure of inspiration:

• His number 1 jersey was retired by the Flyers that same year.

• He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1984.

• In 2017, he was named among the 100 Greatest NHL Players of all time.

• Off the ice, Parent became one of the team’s most spirited ambassadors, giving his time to youth hockey programs — notably the Ed Snider Youth Hockey & Education initiative.

Tributes and Reflections

The response to his death has been immediate and widespread, reflecting the regard in which Parent was held:

• The Philadelphia Flyers issued a statement calling him “a true legend… one of the most famous and beloved players … in the history of the organization and city of Philadelphia

• NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised not just his incredible performances, but also his warmth, generosity, and his role in growing the game.

• Fellow players, coaches, and fans have shared memories: of clutch saves, big games, his unmistakable presence, and his ability to move people both on and off the ice. “Only the Lord saves more than Bernie Parent” — a phrase once emblazoned on bumper stickers — echoed the reverence many felt for his goaltending prowess and his character.

Final Moments & Passing

Parent passed away in his sleep at his home, reportedly following struggles with back pain in recent times. While no further cause of death has been disclosed, his longtime companions and former teammates noted that he had been in pain but retained his spirit and warmth. What He Leaves Behind

Bernie Parent leaves behind a legacy that stretched far beyond his statistics:

• He played 13 NHL seasons, accumulating 271 regular season wins, many of them with Philadelphia.

• His playoff performances, especially during those Stanley Cup runs, remain benchmarks for excellence.

• As a public figure and leader, he maintained ties with the community, youth sports, and fans. His life after hanging up his pads showed an enduring love for the game and a desire to give back. A Farewell to Bernie

As Philadelphia and the hockey world come to terms with this loss, there will surely be memorials, tributes, and celebrations of his life. For many, the sight of his white mask, the image of his calm determination under pressure, and the sound of a crowd buzzing in expectation will be etched into memory forever.

“His legacy will endure not only in the records he set or the trophies he won,” one former teammate said, “but in the joy he brought, the lives he touched, and the inspiration he gave to every young goalie who dared to dream.”
Rest in peace, Bernie Parent.
Your saves, your leadership, your spirit — they live on in the heart of Philadelphia and in the souls of hockey fans everywhere.