John Garrett, the former NHL goaltender and beloved Vancouver Canucks broadcaster, died Tuesday at the age of 74. The cause of death is believed to be natural causes. He was in Utah covering the playoff series between the Utah Mammoth and the Vegas Golden Knights when he passed away. Sportsnet announced his death on Wednesday morning.
Garrett was not just a hockey player and broadcaster; he was an entertainer at heart. His easygoing and humorous personality endeared him to fans and colleagues alike. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and genuine care for those around him.
Early Life and Musical Talent
Born on June 17, 1951, in Trenton, Ontario, Garrett grew up in the small community of Glenn Miller. His father, John Sr., was a school teacher and principal, while his mother, Marvel, was a homemaker. Garrett was one of seven siblings: Joan, Bert, Evelyn, Eldon, Greg, and Murdoch.
His mother enrolled all the children in piano lessons, which not only earned them school credits but also instilled a lifelong appreciation for music. Garrett achieved his Grade 8 piano certification from the Royal Conservatory of Music and a Grade 2 theory certificate. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, he rediscovered his passion for piano, practicing more seriously after his family bought him a new keyboard. His brother Greg also pursued music, becoming a music teacher and choir leader in Ontario.
Hockey Career
Garrett excelled as a goaltender in junior hockey, playing two seasons for the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey Association. He was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in 1971 but never played an NHL game for them, as the team opted for veteran goaltenders. He was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 1972, but again found himself behind Tony Esposito and Gary Smith. He spent the 1972-73 season split between the AHL's Richmond Barons and the WHL's Portland Buckaroos.
In 1973, Garrett joined the World Hockey Association's Minnesota Fighting Saints, where he quickly became a star. He helped the team reach the semifinals in 1974-75. However, financial troubles plagued the Saints, and the team folded in February 1976. Garrett then played for the Toronto Toros (later Birmingham Bulls) and the New England Whalers, who became the Hartford Whalers when they joined the NHL in 1979.
Garrett finally made his NHL debut with the Whalers at age 28. He also played for the Quebec Nordiques and, most notably, the Vancouver Canucks. He was acquired by the Canucks on February 4, 1983, as a backup to Richard Brodeur. The very next night, Brodeur was injured, and Garrett stepped in. Two days later, he was named to the NHL All-Star Game as Brodeur's replacement. Garrett nearly won the All-Star Game MVP, but Wayne Gretzky scored four goals in the third period to claim the honor. Garrett often joked that Gretzky stole a Pontiac Firebird from him.
Broadcasting Career
After retiring as a player in 1985, Garrett briefly worked as an assistant general manager for the Canucks but was soon relegated to third-string goalie duty. He then transitioned to broadcasting, encouraged by Hockey Night in Canada's John Shannon. Garrett quickly developed his on-air personality, becoming a beloved color commentator for the Canucks from 2002 to 2023, working alongside Jim Hughson and later John Shorthouse.
His love for ketchup, burgers, and fries became legendary, as did his willingness to engage with fans. In 2023, the city of Vancouver declared a John Garrett Day, honoring him with a plaque that humorously referenced the All-Star Game incident. The event coincided with McHappy Day, leading Garrett to quip, "It's John Garrett McHappy Day."
Legacy
John Shorthouse once called Garrett the best teammate he ever had. Sportsnet host Dan Murphy, who was with Garrett in Utah, said his friend was in great spirits until the end. Colleagues and fans have shared countless stories highlighting his kindness and humor. Garrett is survived by his wife Sharon, daughters Sarah and Krista, and grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by the hockey community and beyond.
