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Dave Semenko
1957 - 2017
Dave Semenko
1957 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1957
DIED
2017
Dave Semenko Obituary
The Edmonton Oilers announced his death. ”It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Oilers legend Dave Semenko after a short, but courageous battle with cancer. Dave will be remembered as a fierce competitor, loyal teammate, fan favourite and dear friend to so many,” the Oilers said in a statement.
“His legendary toughness on the ice is surpassed only by his kindness and caring for others, and his equally legendary wit and sense of humour. Our hearts go out to Dave’s family and many friends.”
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Semenko won two Stanley Cup championships with the legendary Edmonton Oilers teams of the 1980s. He played on a line with Gretzky and Jari Kurri. He helped clear space on the ice for the Oiler’s Hall of Fame offensive players. He helped the team win the Cup back to back, in 1984 and 1985.
According to CBC Sports, when Gretzky took home MVP honors from the 1983 NHL All-Star Game, he gave the car he won to Semenko to show his appreciation for his linemate’s work on the ice.
“He was known as a goon or a rock-head, but the ironic thing was he was pleasant, witty and gentle,” Gretzky was quoted as saying in a story that appeared on greatesthockeylegends.com. “He would never hurt anyone, and it used to always surprise us when he actually would fight.”
Semenko was considered one of the best fighters in NHL history. He finished his career with 65 goals, 153 points, and 1,175 penalty minutes in 575 NHL regular-season games. According to hockeyfights.com, he was involved in 70 fights during his time in the league.
He played over seven seasons with Edmonton and then played for Hartford and Toronto. He retired after the 1987-1988 season.
After his playing career, he became a color commentator on Oilers radio broadcasts and was an assistant coach with the Oilers during the 1996-97 season.
After his playing career, he became a color commentator on Oilers radio broadcasts and was an assistant coach with the Oilers during the 1996-97 season.
138 Entries
Terri Phillips-Wilson
November 6, 2018
Always and Forever Dave.
So sad, too soon.
Miriana
November 12, 2017
I was privileged to have known him in the early 80s when I lived in Edmonton and he left an indelible imprint of kindness, wit, intelligence and strength rarely found in one person. My heart goes out to his children and family,
Corina Freude
October 26, 2017
From Chile, a big hug for the family. Sad
joe L
August 25, 2017
RIP
Godspeed Dave, you deserve it.
How you can show support
Fan Forever
August 12, 2017
Passing on a message of hope and faith to the Semenko family. Know that this gentle giant of a man you were blessed to have in your family helped many in such an unselfish way. His gift to his teammates and fans will always be remembered and appreciated. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.
Ed Bodurka
July 26, 2017
I was very sadden to hear about Dave, he was one of my favorite Edmonton Oiler players, I got a chance to meet him in person at one of the Ukrainian restaurants here in the city, a very nice and pleasant person. He will be greatly missed by us all. Rest in peace Dave.
July 14, 2017
Still in shock, i'm a really chatty person, had the opportunity to meet "MY DAVEY" at a ARFA event, I was star stuck & speechless, I'm a north end girl! You'll always be my hero!!!!!!!
Cant wait to see his numbers in the rafters, first new banner at Rogers Place
Lynn K
Heather Tiessen
July 9, 2017
Sammy it's hard to accept you are gone You will always be in my heart ❤ my friend now and forever
Barbara
July 8, 2017
Dave: I remember standing beside you at the Sportspage when I was 19. You were larger than life with a joyful spirit. Canadians salute you. Hearts to Heaven, 27. Peace and Love to you.
Geri Dick
July 7, 2017
Obviously and no doubt, Dave was a great and exceptional man. What a wonderful Father he appeared to be to his children and a truly remarkable friend to those who were fortunate enough to have him as one. To all who had a hand in his Celebration of life from Father Mccaffery, to the Oilers group, Kevin Lowe, his beloved children along with the musicians and all the speakers, what a fantastic tribute to a fantastic person. I have no doubt Dave would be very proud of all of you and perhaps have his own little amusing comments he might have added. A fan, who was very appreciative and proud to have attended such a wonderful send off to Dave. RIP.
Heather Tiessen
July 7, 2017
Dear Dave, You are a gentle teddy bear and you always made my day with a smile from you. You have a great smile that warms my heart and other fans. So sad you went to early but now to play with the Great Gordy Howe R.I.P. Dave and I'll see you in Heaven my Friend. Love Heather Tiessen
fran lawson
July 7, 2017
r.i.p. you gave us many times of enjoyment. you were special.
Nikki
July 7, 2017
RIP, Sammy.
You will be missed. ♥
((Retire #27))
David and Ingrid Roades
July 7, 2017
We met your parents,Dave, many years ago on a visit to Winnipeg. I wish we had been able to meet you in person especially since you are my husband David John Roades (mom was Pearl Semenko) cousin. May God bless and sustain your family through this difficult time.
D. Hebert
July 7, 2017
There was something about Dave that felt like he was "Edmonton's son" and the news of his too soon loss has touched many hearts. Someone asked me recently if I'd ever made pyrogies and I replied only twice. The recipe I used years ago was in the Edmonton Journal that Dave Semenko said was his family's recipe: add flour to sour cream and that's it. I recall that was the extent of the 'recipe' he gave - no measurements provided so who knew if it was a joke or not?! But I tried it and the rich dough worked very well! Days after thinking about him, we all heard the shock about Dave's passing. The whole of Edmonton must be in mourning right now. My sincere condolences to the Semenko family for your great loss.
Helen Hunchak
July 7, 2017
My sympathy goes out to the Semenko family. Shocked to hear of his passing. He was a great individual. A great inspiration to the Oilers organization. May you rest in peace. You will truly be misssed.
Helen Hunchak
July 7, 2017
Condolescences to the Semenko family, Dave will always be in our hearts as the nicest and kindest man and a great tribute to the Oilers organization. Rest in peace.
Claudette Barton
July 6, 2017
Condolences to the Semenko family. Dave will always be remembered in the city of champions Edmonton as he was a champion of the game of hockey. He will be missed.
Shane & Suzanne Neufeld / Cole
July 6, 2017
Condolences to the Semenko family may Dave rest in peace. He was a favorite of ours and we loved watching him play and protect. We will always see you at the rink!
Karen and Brandon Dawson
July 6, 2017
God Bless You and Your Family.
You Will Definitely Be Missed By All
Darren Dahl
July 6, 2017
To a great contributor to the game of hockey who dominated his role to the game of hockey as a true and honoured ambassador and champion of the sport.Will be remembered and not forgotten
Elia Di-Filippo Palamarchuk
July 6, 2017
To the Semenko family
Thank you for opening your hearts to the fans today. It was truly a beautiful way to remember your father,son,brother,grandfather,uncle, and friend. Dave Semenko will always be remembered never forgotten.
Tracy Carrington
July 6, 2017
God bless you and your family
Tracy Carrington
July 6, 2017
You will be sorely missed Sammy but you will brighten up heaven with your sense of humor Rest In Peace..
John & Debra Walker
July 6, 2017
RIP Dave will always be missed.Deepest Sympathy to the family.
John J. Murray
July 6, 2017
One of the greatest, toughest men of the league, will be missed. To the One who kept Gretsky safe... Rest in Peace.
Sharon Algot
July 6, 2017
Taken way too soon. RIP Dave. You will always be remembered.
Sharon A
Eveline Kaybidge
July 6, 2017
You will be dearly missed Dave
Sincere sympathy to your family
David Callander
July 6, 2017
Simply the best, I never met you in person, however I feel like i just lost my best friend. When I get to heaven I hope I get a second chance to meet you.
Rita Laboucan
July 6, 2017
Rest in Peace Dave. Dave visited Fox Lake,AB back in March 4, 1995 and he signed an autograph on the wall inside the arena lobby and it is still there. 22 years ago.
July 6, 2017
Angie AB
Georgette AB
July 6, 2017
Jim AB
Norm S
July 6, 2017
Remember a sign held by a fan at a home game "Semenko means never having to say sorry". You were the best protector in hockey history and will be forever missed by all.Thanks for the memories
Michele Vandendooren
July 6, 2017
I am so saddened by Dave's passing - my heartfelt condolences to family and friends.
He will forever be in the hearts of Edmontonians and Oilers fans.
He was one of a kind
Zoria
July 6, 2017
A hero forever
Helen Bain
July 6, 2017
RIP" God Bless You . Prayers .
Melissa K
July 5, 2017
You will be missed
Val Toffoli
July 5, 2017
Sincerest Condolences to Dave's Family, Friends & Fans. Apart from being the best & toughest Enforcer on the Ice, you were also the kindest, gentlest, thoughtful, funny, witty, intelligent and caring soul who loved everyone and truly tried to make everyone whose life you touched feel special. Your love of children was so evident! Your commitment to the community (Oiler Nation) and dedication to make this world a better place will also be a part of your legacy. Gone much, much too soon. Rest in Peace Sammy. You will be missed!
John Dingman Jr.
July 5, 2017
You made it safe for the most talented team in the early to mid 1980's Dave. Nobody dare take liberties towards the talented Oiler players when the most feared enforcer in the NHL (who stepped into the ring with Muhammad Ali) was who you would have to answer to. You did your job and did it well Dave. Off the ice you also did your job of using your wit to keep things light and fun for 'The Boys On The Bus'.
No other Oiler player carried the team's heart on his sleeve except Gretz and the Moose.
It was no surprise that you would return to the Oilers organisation once your playing days were over.
You left so fast and so early. You have left a large empty spot in the Oilers and in the community of Edmonton and your family.
May God take care of the entire Semenko family and Oiler teams of that Dave protected and know that Dave is still looking out for you all and still has his wit and his charm.
R.I.P. Sammy
Chilly
July 5, 2017
Dave and family , such a sad loss, you will be missed by many and thought of more often. I had the pleasure of enjoying Dave and his company ,,since he arrived in Edmonton. A true man and always true to his word. Life will continue for you and at times on a better place, we shall miss you.
Hazel Stewart
July 5, 2017
So long Dave. You passed away far too young.
Rest in peace #27. You were the best.
The Phillips
July 5, 2017
Dave Semenko
# 27
Is now...
In Heaven
Gloria Saunders
July 5, 2017
Such a great man who has now left a great legacy for all. Sincerest condolences to Dave's family and friends and hockey players.
Donna & "Rosie" Phillips
July 5, 2017
To The Family & Friends of Dave Semenko
May you somehow someway find Courage, Strength and Love moving forward.
THANK YOU Dave Semenko for the years of the best hockey games Edmonton ever encountered with you being a big source for that !
THANK You for your kind heart and community service in Edmonton you truly were a great Edmontonian and a kind soul you shall never be forgotten.
Several years ago I had the pleasure of meeting Dave at the Stollery Hospital with my "Rosie" a pet therapy Lab whom helped children battling cancer Dave Semenko told me how he admired the work Rosie and I did for children. It's a meeting of Dave Semenko that I will never forget.
In closing Dave, Heaven has become a better place THANK YOU for your presence a large spirit you carried.
Rest In Peace Now ... You are worthy.
Donna and "Rosie" Phillips
July 5, 2017
Rest in Peace, Dave. You had many admirers from all over the World. A job well done by the Semenko family for the upbringing of a much respected Son.
Crystal Wynnyk
July 5, 2017
Thank you for the memories Sammy!
I will miss you & always remember you!
Peace, Prayers & Blessings!
July 4, 2017
Dave was my all-time favourite Oiler. I am now a senior citizen and will remember always the great games that he was in. What a good man! My sincere condolences to his family, friends and fans.
Just a fan,
Cecilia Rusnell
Mark Joseph
July 4, 2017
To Brian Semenko and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family during this difficult time.
Judy
July 4, 2017
A new chapter for you Dave.
Denise Duquette
July 4, 2017
Dave will be greatly missed but his warmth, kindness, and his gentle spirit will be remembered forever. May your memories give you peace and comfort.
Chelsey Drapaka
July 4, 2017
My heart and prayers go out to daves family and friends as well as his former Oilers teammates during this difficult time.
Semenko takes to the ice at BMO Hockey Heroes Weekend
Vanessa Burns
July 4, 2017
Had the pleasure of working closely with Dave at the 2015 BMO Hockey Heroes Weekend in support of Heart & Stroke. Sorry to hear of his passing. Thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
Melanie
July 4, 2017
Dave, Thank you for the great memories on the ice. Condolences to your family and all who loved you. You were great on the ice but from the stories you were even greater off the ice. You were taken too soon from this world but your memory will never be forgotten. Thank you again.
Andrew & Laura Raymond
July 4, 2017
Our very deepest condolences to the Semenko Family.
July 4, 2017
great man bob sorensen
Ken and Patti Brown
July 4, 2017
We feel so fortunate to have had a wonderful visit with Dave in February, never imagined his passing as we visited. Condolences to entire Dave Semenko family including all Oilers fans.
Wade Johnson
July 4, 2017
Thanks for the memories Dave. It was fun to watch you play with the greatest hockey team ever. Our thoughts are with your family in this sad time.
July 4, 2017
Beloveds, I send deepest condolences as we await the wonderful time when no one will ever again be sick, for this has been promised. (Isa.33:24)
July 4, 2017
Dave, you played with heart, you not only protectected your team mates so that they could achieve greatness but you also contributed in goals& assists on & of the ice. You are a special man. If I had any say , your number 27 would be raised to the rafters in Rodgers Place. Thank you for all you did for our community. ALAN
July 3, 2017
Our hearts go out to Dave's Family. We were proud Oiler Ticket holders in the 80's. Continued to follow Dave and so pleased to see him part of Oilers recently. You will be missed Gentle Ben off the ice. RIP.... Doug & Ivy Walton now Victoria, B.C.
Helen Wald
July 3, 2017
Rest in peace I liked watching you play rest in peace God bless
D Y
July 3, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Doug Mc
July 3, 2017
Watching him play with the Oilers was a great memory of Edmonton that I will never forget. He was a BIG part of the Oiler's team and won't be forgotten by the fans of those days. Lace up Dave, Hit em hard and R.I.P. !
Gary Potter
July 3, 2017
I am saddened to hear of Dave's passing and offer my sincerest of condolences to all of his family. I have a zillion wonderful memories of all the time we spent together in Brandon and area, plus the numerous times I stayed with Dave in Edmonton. While circumstances of commitments took us apart I will forever remember his great sense of quiet humour, his easy going nature (off the ice ), and his big soft heart.
My life was better because he was part of it in our younger years, and both myself, family, and especially my daughter Amanda are all very proud that Dave was her Godfather.
Rest in Peace Dave knowing you were loved, admired, and respected.
michael marc arnault
July 3, 2017
Shocked and saddened to hear of Dave's passing. A true Oiler. Someone I will forever remember playing in the NHL level at exactly the right time and the right era. Gretz and the boys added so much excitement but boy oh boy, so did you Dave.
As long as #27 was on the ice, all was well in Oilerville! Say hi to my son Marc in heaven who was a huge Oiler fan like his Dad!
Geri K
July 3, 2017
Hugs and prayers to your family off and on the ice. Always remembered, never forgotten, RIP Dave
July 3, 2017
The Semenko Family,
My deepest condolences to your family in the sudden passing of Dave. Dave was a great player, enforcer, protector, ambassador to the City of Edmonton and a all around nice guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Deb L.
Edmonton
Bruce Campbell
July 3, 2017
Have a beer or two with Bob Probert up in the sky. You will be missed but never forgotten. A great Oiler, a great ambassador for the team and the city. Rest in peace Sammy.
July 3, 2017
Mr. Semenko: Thanks for all the good old fashion hockey memories. You made the game of hockey exciting for all hockey fans. You are one of the great ones! Those were the days....
Rest in Peace.
Lillian K.
Calgary, Alberta
Judy/Ron Babiuk
July 3, 2017
To the family:
Sincerest condolences on your very sudden loss. Cherish your memories and hope these will sustain you in the days ahead. A terrific player and human being. Rest peacefully and thanks for your contributions to hockey and community.
Terry Erickson
July 3, 2017
Thank you Dave. My sincerest condolences to your family and friends at this time.
Chelsey Drapdks
July 3, 2017
My heart and prayers go out to daves family, as well as his former Oilers teammates. I was so sorry to hear about his passing.
Lise Simard
July 3, 2017
My deepest sympathies to the family. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, let perpetual light shine upon him, may he rest in peace through the Mercy of God. Amen Lise Simard
mike kooznetsoff
July 3, 2017
With my Deepest Sympathy to the Semenko Family.Dave may you rest in peace Some times life is not far...Wee will all miss you.
Rick Kshyk
July 3, 2017
My condolences to Dave's family. RIP
The Coopers
July 3, 2017
Our deepest condolences
Kevin and Wanda Martyn
July 3, 2017
To the Sememko Family,
With Deepest Sympathy
We were very sad to hear of Daves passing .
He was one of the great ones in our eyes back in the late 70s and 80s best hockey ever played
Life is a precious gift
Once shared they remain in our hearts forever.
Paul Chilko
July 3, 2017
Passed way to soon. Allowed the great players to ply their game. A true warrior in the game of hockey. So sad to see you go so soon. As many of your fans I to have a picture with you , which I cherish.
Helen Bain
July 3, 2017
Rip God Bless You . Deepest Sympathy To All . Prayers .
Janice Miller
July 3, 2017
Fond memories of Dave when he played as an Oiler - the hockey world will miss him! Left us in shock and much to soon. Condolences to all the family as they mourn. RIP.
With sympathy, Janice Miller
Melinda Hollis
July 3, 2017
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
July 3, 2017
RIP Gone too soon. JL
July 3, 2017
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your love one.
Paula McCool
July 3, 2017
Still shell-shocked upon hearing of Mr. Semenko's passing. He was and forever will be my favorite Oiler. My condolences to his family and friends.
Dale Marta
July 2, 2017
RIP SAMMY
Sandi Illsley
July 2, 2017
My heart ❤ goes out to his daughter and her mother in their time of loss.
Gord Culos
July 2, 2017
A true and real Super Hero, protected and defendef the weaker and innocent wore his Uniform with pride and honor on and off the Ice, a real Canadian Super Hero and a real Man
Allan Switzer
July 2, 2017
An Oiler great who will be remembered as a gentle giant and soft hands , he'll be sadly missed !
Leanne Charron
July 1, 2017
DAVE you were my #1 hockey player. I followed you all over your career. You were my idol, my # is 27!! I'm sure going to miss you.❤
July 1, 2017
Thank you Dave
David Guthrie
July 1, 2017
Sad great guy saw him in St Louis best to family.
Terry and Barb Bradley
July 1, 2017
Followed him as a Wheat King and an Oiler. Made hockey history. Our sincerest sympathies to his family.
BERNHARD Busse
July 1, 2017
I did a lot of work for Glen sather that is how I got to meet Dave he was a wanderful man you will be greatly missed
July 1, 2017
I remember Dave from his WHL days with the Brandon Wheat Kings. He was a great fighter even back then. He was always well liked. He will be sadly missed. LL
sally renaud
July 1, 2017
My he rest in peace and his family have Gods arms around them to console them. He will be sadly missed
The Renaud Family
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