Springfield, Requiem. … Willie MarshallAll-time leader of the American Hockey League in goals, assists, points and games played and a charter member of the league’s Hall of Fame, died today at his home in Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
Marshall was 91 years old.
“At a time when there were only six teams in the NHL, Willie Marshall was one of the greatest players not only in the AHL but in the entire sport of hockey,” said the AHL’s president and CEO. Scott Howson. “His contributions helped shape a tradition of excellence in the AHL that continues to this day. But more importantly, Willie was a dedicated family man of character and faith. Our deepest condolences go out to his son Will; his daughters Ann, Jane, and Joan; and his entire family.”
A talented scorer and playmaker, Marshall dominated the AHL over 20 seasons with the Pittsburgh Hornets (1952-56), Hershey Bears (1956-1963), Rochester Americans (1958-59, 1971-72), Providence Reds (1963-66) and Baltimore Clippers (1966-1971). More than half a century after his retirement, Marshall is still the AHL leader in scoring with 523 goals, 852 assists, 1,375 points, and 1,205 games played.
The Kirkland Lake, Ont., native was voted a first-team AHL All-Star in 1955-56 and again in 1957-58, when he won the league title with a game-best 104 points in 68 games. He was also a second selection to the All-Star team in 1961-62.
In addition, Marshall, a three-time Calder Cup champion (with Pittsburgh in 1955 and with Hershey in 1958 and 1959), ranks second in league history with 119 playoff points over his 112 career post-season games.
“We are sorry for the loss of Willie Marshall, one of the best citizens of the Hershey Bears and the American Hockey League,” said Vice President of Hockey Operations and AHL Hall of Fame member. Brian Helmer. “Willy left an indelible mark on our franchise history. He was a hero, a leader, and a first-class person whose contributions to the league and hockey were immeasurable. Our thoughts are with Willie’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
In 2004, the American Hockey League honored its leader in career scoring with an establishment Willie Marshall Award, which is now presented annually to the AHL player who scores the most goals in each season. And in 2006, Marshall was one of seven members of the inaugural class of inductees into the American Hockey League’s Hall of Fame.
“The Americans of Rochester are deeply saddened by Willie’s passing,” said the Americas Hall of Famer. Judy Gagewho along with Marshall was a charter member of the 2006 AHL Hall of Fame Class. “Willy is and remains one of the most iconic figures in our league and in hockey, and he will be sorely missed. The entire Amerex organization extends condolences to his friends and family at this difficult time.”
Marshall will remember a moment of silence tonight before Hershey and Rochester, two of his former teams, met in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Finals in Rochester, New York.