The hockey world and the people of Prince Edward Island are mourning the loss of former NHL player Forbes Kennedy, who died Monday at the age of 90. Widely recognized as one of the most respected hockey figures to come from Prince Edward Island, Kennedy is being remembered not only for his tough style of play but also for his kindness, mentorship, and lifelong dedication to the sport.
Known affectionately as “Forbie” by friends, fans, and fellow Islanders, Forbes Kennedy enjoyed a distinguished National Hockey League career that spanned more than a decade. Between 1956 and 1969, he played over 600 NHL games for several franchises, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers, and Toronto Maple Leafs.
Though never the biggest player on the ice, Kennedy earned a reputation as one of hockey’s fiercest competitors. Over the course of his NHL career, he accumulated 888 penalty minutes while also contributing 178 career points. His fearless approach and relentless work ethic made him a respected figure throughout the league and helped define the rugged style of hockey associated with his era.
Former NHL player and coach Gerard Gallant described Kennedy as a mentor to generations of players from Prince Edward Island who dreamed of reaching professional hockey. Gallant recalled how Kennedy regularly encouraged younger athletes, offering advice and support whenever NHL players returned home during the offseason.
Many who knew Kennedy personally remembered him as someone deeply connected to his roots. Despite his success in professional hockey, he remained proud of his Island heritage and continued giving back to local communities long after his playing days ended.
Born in Dorchester, New Brunswick, in 1935, Kennedy’s family returned to Prince Edward Island shortly after his birth and settled in Charlottetown. He would later become one of the province’s most celebrated sports figures and was inducted into the Prince Edward Island Sports Hall of Fame in 1968.
Longtime Island sports columnist Fred “Fiddler” MacDonald described Kennedy as “bigger than life,” noting that his colorful personality, honesty, and authenticity made him unforgettable to everyone who met him. According to MacDonald, Kennedy became a folk hero throughout Summerside, Charlottetown, and communities across Prince Edward Island.
Following his NHL career, Kennedy remained active in hockey through coaching and mentorship. After spending time coaching in the United States, he returned to Prince Edward Island, where he continued helping young athletes develop both on and off the ice.
Tributes have continued pouring in from hockey organizations and former teammates. The Charlottetown Islanders praised Kennedy for leaving a lasting impact on the game at every level, while the Philadelphia Flyers honored him as an important part of establishing the identity and culture of Flyers hockey during the franchise’s earliest years.
Friends, family members, teammates, and fans are now reflecting on the legacy Forbes Kennedy leaves behind — one built on toughness, loyalty, mentorship, and a deep love for hockey and community. Though he has passed away, his influence on Prince Edward Island hockey and the NHL will continue to be remembered for generations to come.