Add a Memory
Make a Donation
BORN
1936
DIED
2023
Bobby Baun Obituary
Bobby Baun was a professional hockey player with the Toronto Maple Leafs who scored a game-winning goal in the 1964 Stanley Cup finals while skating on a broken ankle.
We invite you to share condolences for Bobby Baun in our Guest Book.
Read Full Obituary.
(Photo: Bruce Bennett Studios via Getty Images Studios/Getty Images)
22 Entries
Susan Stubbs
March 12, 2024
Watched him play with my Dad Raymond Philco! So sorry for your loss
Susan Stubbs
March 12, 2024
Use to watch him with my Dad Raymond Philco who was a first cousin of Bobby!
So sorry for your loss!
Bruce D. Roadhouse
August 19, 2023
I had the pleasure of meeting Bobby Baun, Dick Duff and Shackie at a signing in Pickering a few years ago and I asked Bob where I could buy his book. He invited me into his home and a few weeks later I received a call from Bob to come down. The date set, I was invited in by Sallie Baun and met Bob. We sat in their kitchen and I told Bob that I grew up just around the block from him on Rhydwen Ave., and I also went to Birchcliffe P.S. We talked at length about his time in the Birchcliffe area of Scarborough and we knew of some of the same people. Of course we talked about the GOAL!! and his career in hockey and after. An amazing man. He handed me his book and a personal card. I brought with me a walking stick that I had been making and he was pleased to accept it. We finished the visit talking about finishing furniture. A man among men and oh so proud of his family and close friends. He was the favourite patient of the late Dr. James H. Swan, cardiologist. I pray for peace and thank the Baun family for their Love and support of Bob. Bless you all.
Barbara Taylor
August 19, 2023
I met Sallie when she was first engaged to Bobby. I think 1955-/57. I worked with Sallie at the TTC. That relationship made such an impression on my young life. I was in love too and engaged as well. My marriage was happy and blessed for 59 years. We lived in the best of days. Sallie was a model for excellence and one that made me desire for the same in my life just starting. My condolences Sallie and may God Bless you and yours during these days. (Barbara - not the English redhead)
How you can show support
Stafford Higginson
August 19, 2023
I was able to spend time with him at his kitchen table, I was able to give him back a hockey stick that was his when he played and he was very thankful, it brought back memories when he played #21
Pleasure to connect with him and Sally
Linda Hokanson Nevin
August 19, 2023
Bobby was a teammate and good friend of my late husband, Bob Nevin. There was such respect between the guys from those teams of the 60s. I loved to watch when they got together and they were always so happy to see each other. Bobby was such a nice man and together with Sally, they were a lovely couple. My condolences to Sally and her family. Linda Nevin
Diana stephenson
August 19, 2023
Rest in peace #21...they don´t make them like you anymore! Thanks for the memories. May a Choir of Angels now escort you on your way to Heaven. Sincere sympathy to family at this sad time. Diana Stephenson (fan)
Craig Hrynkiw
August 19, 2023
Bob was my second cousin, my Grandmother Stella and Bob's Mother 'Helen' were sisters. Unfortunately, I only met Bob a few times when I was a kid, at my father's funeral reception, and briefly at my Grandparents' funerals. My father didn't live to see his 43rd birthday, and remember Bob's kindness, so I thank God that Bob lived twice as long, and made a difference in the lives of many. The main thing that has always stuck with me about Bob, was even though he was the most famous person I knew back then, I remember his kindness, humility, and great laugh.
As a kid our family watched the Toronto Maple Leafs play every week, because Bob was playing. He was my connection to the game, as dollars were very tight growning up, and playing the game (other than in the driveway) just wasn't an option. I remember watching how tough Bob was on the ice; checking much bigger players, and watching him stop them in their tracks; the many fights that would break out back then, and how he had the back of every other Leaf if someone started something with one of them. And I remember hearing the legendary story of his scoring the winning goal in overtime, after breaking his ankle earlier in the game, then being back on the ice the next game as well, to help the Leafs win the Stanley Cup that year. I was only two at the time he scored the goal, so I didn't get to see footage of the game until many years later. Even though I didn't really know Bob growing up, I have carried with me throughout a great sense of pride just knowing that I was related to such a Hockey Legend, and of the contributions he worked so hard to bring to his team as a player - including four season's where the Leafs won the Stanley Cup; and for the contributions he gave of himself in fighting for all NHL players off the ice. Every NHL play on the ice today owes Bob a great deal, for the difference he fought hard to bring to their professional careers.
Due to my own health issues, I was not able to go to Bob's funeral, but the effort he made in doing all he could do to be there to support our family, the day of my father's funeral, has always meant a lot to me personally, and speaks volumes about the type of man he was - and how much family meant to him. The day of my father's funeral, Bob stopped for gas on the way from Toronto to Brantford. Unfortunately, the kid who pumped his gas and checked the oil, forgot to put the dip stick back in, closed the hood, and Bob pulled away thinking he was good to go for the trip to Brantford. Down the road, because the oil had been spraying out under the hood, the engine blew. Bob was closer to home than Brantford, and could have had his car towed and went home - but he didn't give up. Better a little late than not being there for our family. Bob rented a car, missed the funeral, but made it to the reception after. The extra effort he put into not giving up, and getting there as soon as he could meant a great deal to our family, and I have never forgotten it.
Since hearing of Bob's passing, I have seen many tributes paid to his career (on YouTube), containing footage of his famous goal; interviews; as well as fan stories and tributes. Bobby Baun was a Hockey Legend, and will always be remembered as part of Toronto Maple Leafs and NHL Hockey History, and by hockey fans and players everywhere - both on and off the ice.
Even though Bob was family, and I only had the pleasure of meeting him a small number of times, the memories I do have of Bob are all good ones.
My condolences go out to Bob's close family and friends. I am so sorry for your loss. Bob will be remembered by so many, not just for his career in hockey, but for the person he was. You are in my prayers.
Craig Hrynkiw
Cindy Bower
August 18, 2023
Johnny Nancy Bower. and the Bobby Sallie Baun Great team mates and wonderful supportive friends. Our condolences love and hugs From the Bower Children : John Jr Cindy Barb.
Margie MacIntyre
August 18, 2023
My deepest sympathy to the entire Baun family. I will always remember the goal on a broke ankle and have often remarked on Bobby's steadfast commitment to the game. RIP Bobby Baun and thank you! Go Leafs Go!
Norman Said
August 18, 2023
Greg and family:
Our sympathies on the passing of your DAD.
Norm Said and Nancy Smith
Carmen smith
August 18, 2023
So sorry for your loss .I had the opportunity to meet bobby at a old timer tournament in port hood Nova Scotia a number of years ago .we sat and talked for two hours .just a remarkable man .who shared lots of stories .I will never forget those special stories .god bless . Carmen smith .antigonish novascotia
Anthony Hume
August 17, 2023
Hi I was lucky enough to have had Bobby as a roommate in semi private hospital room in October 2001 at Sunnybrook Hospital Toronto after a bad motorcycle accident. We chatted a lot about the Leafs and life in general. Bobby also impressed upon me to think positive and that I´d overcome my injuries. He was gracious enough to come and visit me in hospital after he was released and brought me a signed picture of him and the Cup along with a signed copy of his book " Lowering the Boom " A real gentleman and a great childhood sports hero. A real old school hockey player and a success in business and in life. Proud to have spent those hours with you chatting and all the memories of the great Leaf Teams of the 60´s. Rest in Peace Bobby
Anthony Hume
Phil Nelson
August 17, 2023
My most sincere condolences to Bobby's family. What a hockey legend. As a blue blooded Leaf fan he was my hero. His family must be very proud of a man who played his heart out for the Leafs. The hockey world will miss this great player and family man.
John Byberg
August 17, 2023
Many hugs to the Sally and the Baun family. A true story is in order I think about Bobby. My father passed way to young when I was 12. Out of our family's circle of friends there were only two men, father figures, who spent time with me to help me through. Bobby was one of them. We went to Charleston lake to fish for Lake Trout. It was a brilliant day I recall. It will not be forgotten. RIP Bobby
Jaime McGill
August 17, 2023
Sincerest condolences to Mr. Baun's family and friends. He was a genuinely kind man. Someone whom you never forget.
Virginia Vetrone
August 17, 2023
Deepest Condolences to Greg and the entire Baun Family.
Mr. Baun was a kind and humble man.
RIP
Erin Walsh
August 16, 2023
I worked for Bobby Bain for 10 years. He was kind and humble. I won´t forget him coming in rolling up his sleeves and helping me go my night bake while telling me stories. He was a great man
Kevin Travers
August 16, 2023
My grandfathers sister lived beside Bobby Baun in the early 60's. Bobby invited me and my grandfather to a Leaf practice at the Gardens. After te practice Bobby handed me a stick as a souvenir. I had that stick in my room for years. Unfortunately I used it to play road hockey years later and broke it. I had a Leaf sweater with #21 that I wore all the time. years later Bob's son Jeff became a customer of mine in the Food Plant repair business.I will always remember Bobby as a rough and tough player. I will forever remember being invited to the Gardens and the stick I received from Bobby. My condolences to his entire family.
Mary aroukatos
August 16, 2023
We met Bobby Baun through my dad Peter(Donut World Pickering) . My dad would go over to Tim Hortons and teach him how to make certain donuts . My sisters went to Pickering high with his daughter. I later saw him when he received an award during a leaf game and he fondly remembered my late dad. Bobby Baun was a man of class, a hardworking family man who opened the door for all these young players to reap the benefits the original leaf players never got to enjoy in retirement. He will be missed by all that had the honor of knowing him.
Tim McTiernan
August 16, 2023
I got to know Bobby Baun during my time at Ontariotech University where, as the recipient of an honorary doctorate and an active participant in university events he was a valued and hugely respected member of the university community, as is Sallie. Famous for his grit, his hockey achievements and his place among the stars of his era, he was at the heart of it all a kind and gentle man who served as a role model to generations of fans - including those who were born long after his playing days were over. The memory that stands out for me is from one of the university´s annual athletic awards banquets. Bobby was, of course, the guest of honour. At the end of the night there were handshakes and quick words with a lot of people all eager to shake his hand. I was standing with Sallie as we watched the people milling around. After a while a line formed, all women from various sports teams all born well after Bobby´s retirement from hockey, all with their cell phones ready to take a selfie. We chuckled. I might be making this up but I don´t think so - I remember Sallie saying: "don´t worry. He´s enjoying this!"
A sports hero - Yes. In the history books - yes. In his heart a kind, genial man with a fun sense of humour. It is an honour to have spent time with him. My condolences to his family. There is an Irish expression: Ar dheis De go raibh a anam uasal!
Cheryl Aspinall
August 16, 2023
I clearly remember watching the Leafs during the 60's., & I still do watch. I saw the game in which Bobby's leg was broken, & was totally amazed that he came back after medical attention, & scored the winning goal. If my memory isn't too shaky, he was paired on defense with the late Carl Brewer. Bobby..thanks for all the great hockey you gave the fans. May you enjoy the peace you so richly deserve.
Showing 1 - 22 of 22 results
Make a Donation
in Bobby Baun's name
How to support Bobby'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 Bobby Baun'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 more