Prime Minister Carney Pays Tribute to the Honourable Ken Dryden

Ottawa, Ontario – Prime Minister Mark Carney has issued a heartfelt statement on the passing of the Honourable Ken Dryden, a Canadian hockey legend, parliamentarian, and champion for social progress. Dryden passed away on the evening of September 5, 2025.

Remembering a Hockey Icon

Ken Dryden was one of the most celebrated goaltenders in NHL history, winning six Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens and earning the Vezina Trophy five times. His legacy on the ice was defined by both his dominance in net and his iconic stance — leaning calmly on his stick between plays.

Prime Minister Carney shared that Dryden personally inspired his own path as a goaltender in his youth, adding a personal reflection to a national moment of mourning.

Deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the Hon. Ken Dryden, a Canadian hockey legend and hall of famer, public servant and inspiration. He was a 6-time Stanley Cup Champion, 5-time Vezina trophy winner, Minister of Social Development, and dedicated Parliamentarian.

Ken…

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) September 6, 2025

A Leader Beyond the Rink

Dryden’s achievements extended far beyond hockey. Following his playing career, he returned to university, underscoring his belief in the importance of education and balance in life. He later entered public service, serving as Minister of Social Development and as a dedicated parliamentarian.

His advocacy included early leadership on affordable national child care, an issue that continues to shape Canadian policy today.

A Life of Service and Inspiration

In his statement, Prime Minister Carney highlighted Dryden’s enduring impact on Canada:

• On sport: a national role model and Hall of Famer who inspired generations.

• On education: a believer in pursuing knowledge even at the height of professional success.

• On public service: a committed advocate for fairness, opportunity, and Canadian unity.

“Ken Dryden was Big Canada. And he was Best Canada,” Prime Minister Carney said in his statement, offering condolences to Dryden’s family, teammates, colleagues, and all Canadians.

National Legacy

Few Canadians have made such a mark on both sport and public life. From the Montreal Forum to Parliament Hill, Dryden’s contributions embodied the values of excellence, service, and resilience that resonate across generations.

As the country reflects on his legacy, Ken Dryden is remembered not only as a hockey legend, but as a citizen who devoted his life to making Canada stronger.

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