The Toronto Maple Leafs have seen a legion of spectacular goaltenders stand tall in the crease, but none more outstanding or notable than Johnny Bower.

“I played my heart out with the Leafs,” said Bower, after ending his thirty year association with them in 1990. “I think that only once out of the 11 years did we fail to make the playoffs.”

The native of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and long time Etobicoke resident joined the Leafs in 1958 after being picked up by the Cleveland Barons of the American Hockey league. Even though he didn’t make it to the NHL until the age of 34, Bower played 11 seasons with Toronto before retiring in 1970.

Bower was rescued from the minors by Leaf coach Billy Reay, long after he figured that his dream of playing as an NHL regular was over. He started more than 500 games in goal, posting 37 shutouts. He finished his career with a sparkling 2.52 goals against average.

But it was his playoff record that is most outstanding. Bower was in the Leafs goal when they won four Stanley Cups, including their last one in 1967.

In 1976 Johnny Bower was elected into the Hockey Hall of Fame – the ultimate tribute to his skill and perseverance.

“Of all the people who are in the Hockey Hall of Fame, there is none more worthy than Johnny Bower,” said the legendary Leaf King Clancy. “He has been one of the most honest and conscientious hockey players ever. And he is in a class by himself as a person.”