It was a real pleasure to witness a special moment over the weekend. Our new friend Bob kindly stepped in to captain our Neighborhood DAWGS team, made up of players who had never met before. His nephew-in-law joined him on the ice, playing alongside him. Bob’s hockey journey began with his late brother Ed at the Steinberg Skating Rink in 1966. Deeply connected to Ed, he treasures the years they spent playing together at the historic Forest Park Rink and at SLUH. This weekend’s tournament brought his 58-year hockey story full circle. St. Louis Blues legend Mike Zuke even joined them for a game, a meaningful moment since Bob and Ed had watched him play back in the ’70s. After scoring two goals in game 4 against the Milkmen on Saturday night, Bob left the ice feeling sad his time was up but also felt Ed’s presence, as if saying, “Well done!” Ed’s jersey had been displayed at Center Ice Brewery after his funeral lunch in March 2020, staying there for over a year. Post-game, a chat with DAWG Nation teammates brought back memories of the brewery’s generosity during the first Jonny O’s tournament, when they created a special Jonny O beer to help fundraising efforts. Ironically, Ed wore number 77—the same as Jonny. A photo from Jim’s wedding in December 1979 shows Ed on the left, Bob on the right. At 71, Bob remains an inspiration, still playing hockey and staying active and healthy.
