So long, Saku: A loyal fan's goodbye

When he stepped onto the ice for the first time after winning his battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2002, the emotion from the crowd was palpable. Truth is, we feel so connected to our team and our captain that, to some extent, we acted as though we had battled with him throughout his illness. His victory was ours, too.

Koivu's commitment to improving healthcare in Montreal through his foundation was monumental. And his personal involvement in children’s causes was nothing short of priceless to every parent with a sick child.

He went above and beyond his responsibilities as a captain. He was a people’s captain. A beloved member of the team and of the city.

In a league that sees players skip from team to team for a few extra dollars, Koivu spent his entire NHL career to date as a Canadien. Few players have shown as much heart and pride in donning the CH.

Now that he’s heading off in a new direction, he leaves behind a city in mourning at the loss of a great Canadien and an even better Montrealer.

Bonne chance Saku. You’ve touched many lives. We’ll miss you.