Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Rick MacLeish
1950 - 2016
Rick MacLeish
1950 - 2016
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1950
DIED
2016
Rick MacLeish Obituary
“With the passing of Rick MacLeish, the Flyers have lost one of their legends,” said Flyers President, Paul Holmgren, in a statement posted on the team’s website. “A good father, grandfather, teammate,and friend, Rick will be missed by all who were fortunate to come and know him over the years. His happy and friendly demeanor was front and center everywhere Rick went. Today, our thoughts and prayers are with Rick’s wife, Charlene, his daughters, Danielle and Brianna, along with his grandchildren. May he rest in peace.”
According to the statement, MacLeish played for the Flyers in parts of 12 seasons, including 11 straight, from 1970-71 to 1980-81. He had 697 points as a Flyer, fourth all time in franchise history, while also recording 328 goals (6th in Flyers history) and 369 assists (T-5th in Flyers history) in 741 games (T-6th in Flyers history).
MacLeish also ranks second in franchise history with 12 regular season hat tricks, only behind Tim Kerr’s mark of 17, the statement said.
Click to get weekly celebrity death news delivered to your inbox.
MacLeish, who was born Jan. 3, 1950, in Cannington, Ontario, Canada, also played for the Hartford Whalers, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Detroit Red Wings. He retired in 1984.
83 Entries
Judy McKinney
March 14, 2025
Rick went to PCVS our high school in Peterborough
Met him in 1967 One of the great hockey players with his wicked shot
He always borrowed my cousin´s typing paper but never gave it back
He was a funny guy and everyone liked him RIP Ricky MacLeish
Sandi Jones-Sands
February 7, 2023
Met Rick when he was in Vancouver playing against the Canucks. We just started talking and he told me all about his race horses and his family. I told him my dad was the biggest Flyers fan and just loved him. He was such a kind and gentle man. Very friendly and didn’t come across as a big snobby famous hockey player. Was so down to earth, so real. I will never forget my talk with him. He died way too young. Rest in Peace Rick! Such a kind soul
Jim Vermilya
May 24, 2017
Greatest hockey player I ever saw / sooring that goal against Russia was the greatest trill of my life god bless
Cheryl Piccioni
January 3, 2017
Such a sad day for hockey, you were one of the great ones , you will be sadly missed
How you can show support
Rick Cole
July 4, 2016
Rick was a standout Oklahoma City Blazer right before joining the Flyer organization. Fond memories of both Rick and Reggie Leach in Blazer uniforms at the Fairgrounds Arena.
RIP Rick!!
Brian McCleish
June 10, 2016
Rick was the greatest person I have ever met. He was giving and caring. I'm lucky to have met someone that enriched my life and showed me how to be a better person. Thank you for all the positive you have given me in my life.
Dorothy Westermeier
June 10, 2016
I remember how gracious Rick was at the Flyers Fan Club Dinners back in the 70's at the Alpine Inn in Springfield, PA...always ready to have his picture taken with a fan. And an amazing hockey player. We wouldn't have had those two cups without him. RIP
Kev Mee
June 8, 2016
Dear Rick, You will go down in the "History Books" as one of the greatest legends of all times. I'll miss your laughter & smile Rick. May God hold you in the right hand of his side !!! God Speed Rick !!!!
Leo Griffin
June 6, 2016
I lived in the Philly area during the Flyers Stanley Cup years. We lived and breathed hockey - every day. Rick MacLeish taught me (through a video) how to properly lace up my skates. I still use the trick he taught me and every time I lace up my skates I think of him.
Anthony Ricci
June 5, 2016
RIP Rick, you definitely were one of the best! My prayers and thoughts go out to the family!
Carol
June 5, 2016
Tried to never miss a Flyers game when this team was playing. He was a fantastic player, and from all I've heard a great human being. May your family find peace in knowing that you touched many lives for the better.
Carolyn S
June 5, 2016
Grew up in Philly.Huge Flyers fan. My brother and I always called eachothe McLeish....when we played with our table top hockey game.or on the street. RIP, Rick..thanks for the memories..condolences to his family.
bea p
June 3, 2016
My favorite flyer ever...may you rest in peace and my thoughts and prayers go out to all the family.
Sandra J.
June 3, 2016
Charlene, Danielle and Brianna my heartfelt condolences are extended to you and the entire family. Even though you are grieving right now, allow your special memories of Rick to help you cope with the days ahead.
Al bOWMAN
June 3, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. One of my all time favorite Flyers, and the favorite of my late father, who always talked about that wrist shot. May he rest in peace. Thank you for all of those memories.
The Beach Club
Chris O'Brien
June 3, 2016
I will miss you Rick ...You left me many memories hanging out in Strathmere....I carried my team signed Flyers jersey from the Stanley Cup team every summer in my truck and I always had intentions of you signing it but for some reason during those years I felt funny asking you as I consider you more of a companion then a hockey celebrity ... looking back I don't regret it... the memories you gave me are much more than any autograph. Thanks for all the great hockey you gave us here in Philly ...Rest in Peace my friend.
angela & joe jackson
June 3, 2016
Our heart felt condolences to your family. Charlene ,so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by so many. Thinking of you. Angie & Joe
June 3, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the family. May Almighty God help you as cope with your loss. Jer. 29:11
John Hackett
June 2, 2016
My thoughts and prayers for the family of Rick MacLeish. I have many good memories of watching him and the Flyers teams as a kid in the seventie's They taught me to work hard,don't give up and good things will happen. He was a truly gifted player who made skating look so effortless and had a fantastic wrist sho . Thanks for the great memories.
Stephanie Battersby-Manela
June 2, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with you Charlene, and the rest of the Macleish family.
Dan Worstall
June 2, 2016
To all all-time favorite Flyer...RIP.
Condolences to the family. Never heard a bad word about Rick and the City of Philadelphia will never forget him!
June 2, 2016
You were absolutely the best. I loved watching you play. We are the same age. My heartfelt condolences go out to your lovely family.
June Tareila (Upper Darby, PA)
Tom McDonnell
June 2, 2016
So sorry to hear this. A great hockey player who I love watching play for the Philadelphia Flyers when I was growing up. Thanks for bringing the Stanley Cup to Philadelphia back in 1974 and 1975 !
Nancy Sheldon
June 2, 2016
I knew Rick since we were teens. He was very generous and let me into his NHL life. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
Kev Mee
June 2, 2016
Rick, You'll be sorely missed. You're a great man!!!!
I was 10,11,& 12 when you won those 3 Stanley Cups. Even though I was younger, I can still see it as clear as the nose on my face .
God Bless Rick !!!
Robert Macom
June 2, 2016
A TRUE friend who will be extremely missed, but NEVER forgotten! All of our good times and fun times will be held in memory forever. Deer Camp will never be the same without you, but your favorite stand will be upheld with pride! Love you pal, may you Rest In Peace!
Stacy
June 2, 2016
May the God of all comfort be with family and loved ones.
Linda Dunbar
June 2, 2016
Was One of the Best Hockey Players of All time...My Favorite. Back in the 70's....May His Soul RIP....
Henry Wilson
June 2, 2016
Just enjoyed hanging around with him in Sea Isle City.
RIP Rickey
Daniel Clark
June 2, 2016
one hellava hockey player and an even better person
LINDA
June 1, 2016
Rick,
You left us too soon, I remember your passion for fast cars,and kindness when you let me drive your Charger. Linda-Flyerette RIP
Mark Johnston
June 1, 2016
Rick was a joy to watch play, a real class player. My deepest condolences to his wife and family.
Nick Flora
June 1, 2016
A smooth player a joy to watch on the ice RIP...
June 1, 2016
Danielle,
Your Dad became my idol in 1974 when he made me a life-long Flyers fan. I am lucky to have so many memories with your Dad on the golf course, at Flyers charity events, and at the JSA Holiday Parties. He and Charlene were always our honored guests. We won many golf outings because of his slap shot!
Karen and I wish you and your whole family condolences and love during this tough time. Our walls will always honor "The Hawk".
Karen and Joe
Shamong, NJ
Kim D
June 1, 2016
I saw this, because I just lost my brother. Saying prayers to the Macleish family. I loved to watch him skate the rink when he assisted
my son's hockey team on occasion. He was a
sweet and kind soul. A great loss and I will remember him always.
Melissa
June 1, 2016
What a class act. RIP.
Victoria Morris
June 1, 2016
I am very sorry to family and friends for the loss. He will ve surely missed. Soon there will come a time when we will never have to grieve the loss of a loved one ever again. Ps 37:9-11
Wells family
June 1, 2016
I am so sorry for your loss. Although your hearts are filled with pain and sorrow, our prayer is that you gain comfort and hope from God's promise to reunite us with our love ones on the earth, never having to say goodbye again. For Jesus will make this earth the problem-free paradise that His Father intended it to be. We have gained comfort and strength from this promise, may your family do the same.
Rick Pollard
June 1, 2016
I got to know Rick about 17 years ago and feel really fortunate I did. I'll miss him tremendously.
Barbara Glock
June 1, 2016
My deepest sympathies to the MacLelish family. I attended the Flyers games back in their heyday and actually got to meet my "crush" when our daughters, Brianna and Emily, played some ball together. Rick may be gone but will never be forgotten.
Brenda Kelly (Butterworth)
June 1, 2016
I grew up with Rick and watched him excel with every team he ever played with. He was a real nice guy who loved to tease us. On the ice you knew he was someone with extraordinary skill through lots of dedication. Heaven just improved their bench strength. God be with you Rick.
Michael McCullough
June 1, 2016
I met Rick one time and he greeted me like he had known me forever I was so thrilled just to shake his hand and thank him for bringing the Stanley Cup to Philadelphia he truly was a gentleman and a great hockey player my condolences to his family
June 1, 2016
To the family, I send my deepest condolences. We have all lost such a talented man. God promises a time soon where he wil get rid of death forever (1 Corinthians 15:26).
dorothy Jones
June 1, 2016
Rip Rick! The world lost a great man. God Bless You. Xo
Stephen
June 1, 2016
My condolences go out to the entire McLeish family.
He was a great friend to have. All his work for the Special Olympics went unnoticed. He was always there to help. A heart of gold
Peter Kostek
May 31, 2016
Had the privilege to be teammates with Rick back with the Petes in the late 60's. Great guy and what a shot. My sympathies to his family.
Bob Ibach
May 31, 2016
I covered the Flyers for the Philly Journal during two seasons, including the long unbeaten streak year of 79-80. Rick was always one of the good guys to the media, fun to be around and just an all-around humble soul. I trust he had a good life with his family after his hockey days. God Bless and may he rest in peace.
vince stingel
May 31, 2016
One of my all time favorite Flyers player to watch. So smooth and so talented. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the Flyers organization!!!
Nancy Healy
May 31, 2016
My sincere condolences to your family. May he rest in peace and may you all treasure the memories you have with him. We Philadelphia Flyers fans will always treasure the memories he made as an amazing hockey player.
And, he was my biggest crush growing up! I attended all the Flyers games when he played! I also remember my Dad taking my picture with his polaroid camera so i could send it to him!
My thought and prayers to you all!
Herb Levine
May 31, 2016
My thoughts and prayers to Rick's family and all the Flyers members. Gone way too soon. I loved watching him play and I still remember the goal against Boston in 74 that got Philly their first cup. The Flyers are a big but tight Family and I know they'll come together for Rick's family.
Carole Diller
May 31, 2016
To the Macleish family I send my heartfelt sorrow.
I remember many fine times in Avalon with Rick and Charlene.
May God give you peace and comfort Rick.
Prayers going out to Charlene for strength and comfort.
Not to be forgotten.
Carole Diller
Steve Krize
May 31, 2016
Truly my hockey hero. First two games I ever saw the flyers play(at the cap center vs Washington) Rick scored hat tricks. The first game I saw at the Spectrum, Rick injured his knee. I was crushed and will never forget that hit my Harold Sneps of Vancouver. Later, I was at the right place at the right time to catch and stop Rick from falling down the steps outside the Spectrum due ti his crutches. So farewell my friend and hockey all time favorite. You are the Flyers all time smoothest and skilled player.
Linda Aucott
May 31, 2016
My sympathies to the MacLeish family. Rick was always my favorite for his playing abilities AND his demeanor on and off the ice. He always showed class and sportsmanship. The Flyers organization lost a legend.
Councillor Rick Chiarelli
May 31, 2016
Condolences to all of Rick's family. You will never know how watching Rick play could teach a young kid the value of determination and dedication to a dream. In this way, Rick has helped to strengthen the character of so many.
Veronica Johnson
May 31, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of the death of one of my favorite hockey players. I still remember calling him when he was hospitalized after a MV accident. Despite his condition, Rick was gracious and answered the questions of a silly teenaged girl. May he rest in peace and his family be comforted in knowing he made an impact on many.
Veronica Johnson (Massachusetts)
May 31, 2016
May family and friends go to God in prayer and he will help you through this difficult time.
Eva Breen
May 31, 2016
I will never forget May 1974 when a senior in high school decided to cut school and go to a parade. In fact the whole small class of St Basil's did and they told us we wouldn't graduate. We did of course. I was one of a few fans who actually went. Loved all the Flyers God bless you Rick and your family
Kathy Aversa
May 31, 2016
We wish to extend our condolences and let you know you are all in our thoughts and prayers. We will never forget Rick, he will be in our hearts forever. He will always be a part of Philadelphia and of the Philadelphia Flyers xoxox
May 31, 2016
Thank you the memories that you provided us on the ice, you all always be in our memories. Another angel got his wings
Peter M
May 31, 2016
God rest, Ricky. Sincere condolences to your family, friends, and associates. Philly lost another great legend.
Russell Newlin
May 31, 2016
My all time favorite Flyer. God rest his soul
Harry Simpson
May 31, 2016
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us. Godspeed.
Erica Gagliardi and Family
May 31, 2016
Our condolences to the Macleish Family.
David DiPietro
May 31, 2016
So sorry to hear this news. I just re-watched 1974 game 7 online 2 days ago.
Rest in peace, Rick. You were one of the true greats and you had class to boot.
I send my sincere condolences to Rick's family, friends and teammates.
Mike Connelly
May 31, 2016
Rest in Peace Hawk!You will be missed.
Bob Wilson
May 31, 2016
I was there at the Spectrum for hundreds of Rick's games. Great skater, unparalleled wrist shot, and a terrific fighter. Very underrated for his pugilistic skills.
We have lost a true hero. My heart hurts, and goes out to his family.
Bob Wilson Wilmington, De.
Carol De Mattia
May 31, 2016
#19.......I wore my jersey with your name and number on it till it fell off me!! You were and always will be my favorite Flyer!!
There will never be another sniper like you.....rest in peace.
Larry Gardner
May 31, 2016
Today we lost one of the greatest Flyer to ever play for our PHILADELPHIA FLYERS. I will never forget that game winning goal! RIP Rick!
Timothy Lannie
May 31, 2016
To the MacLeish family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of watching Rick play hockey with the Flyers when I was growing up. He was truly a class act. My sincerest sympathies to the entire family. God must be building one heck of a hockey team in heaven.
Buck Bamboo
May 31, 2016
We will miss you number 19! You will live in our sports memory forever
Mary Ann Kinder
May 31, 2016
To the family of Rick,
So sorry to hear of Ricks passing he was a nice man knew him from the flyers and down the shore, he will be missed
Mary Ann Kinder
Richard Klett
May 31, 2016
May God Bless you, your family and friends at this time. It has been a tough year for the Flyers family and fans. First we lose Ed Snider and now you Rick. May you Rest In Peace. Thanks for the memories.
Chuck Rehill
May 31, 2016
RIP Rick.
You brought this city many hsppy moments.
Mark Corbo
May 31, 2016
Sad day for all Flyers fans. This guy was a threat any time he stepped on the ice. I have followed the Flyers since the beginning, and, in my opinion, The Hawk was the best sniper that the Flyers have ever had. He also probably scored more big goals than anybody else in Flyers' history - I have no idea why he's not in the HOF. RIP, Rick, and thanks for everything...
Paula Wilson
May 31, 2016
May the God of Comfort and Tender Mercies, be with your family during this difficult time.
Maria McDermott
May 31, 2016
To the MacLeish Family,
I am so sorry for your loss, praying for your family. Rest in Peace Rick!!!
May 31, 2016
May the God of all comfort be with the family,and give you peace..1cor.2:3,4...
Mark Sheckman
May 31, 2016
Rest in peace Rick. Thanks for making my life better by you and the Flyers being in it.
Tom Watson
May 31, 2016
You were my all time favorite player when I was a kid growing up. You were a great inspiration to me and I'll miss you.
May 31, 2016
My condolences to the family and friends. May you draw comfort in the hope found at John 6:40.
Carson Family
May 31, 2016
Dear Charlene,
We want to express our sympathy and let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We are deeply saddened by the loss that your family have encountered. Let your warm memories of happy times with Rick comfort you and your family and may God comfort you during this difficult time.
Psalms 147 : 3
Showing 1 - 83 of 83 results
Make a Donation
in Rick MacLeish's name
How to support Rick's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Rick MacLeish's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored