Dick Cherry Death, Obituary Kingston, Ontario – A Beloved Hockey Icon Lost at 88: Remembering the Quiet Legacy of Dick Cherry, Former NHL Defenseman, and Brother to the Legendary Don Cherry

Kingston, Ontario, March 7, 2025 – The hockey community and the world at large have been deeply shaken by the passing of Richard “Dick” Cherry, former National Hockey League (NHL) defenseman, coach, and television commentator, at the age of 88. His death on March 7, 2025, has left a profound void in the hearts of fans and colleagues across Canada, especially in his hometown of Kingston, Ontario, where Dick Cherry was known not only as a talented athlete but also as a beloved local figure.

Dick Cherry, born and raised in Kingston, was best known for being the younger brother of the infamous Don Cherry, an iconic personality in the world of hockey. However, while Don’s larger-than-life presence in the sport often overshadowed his brother, Dick carved out his own remarkable legacy. Quiet, composed, and incredibly skilled on the ice, Dick was a defenseman who made his mark in both the NHL and in minor league hockey. His career spanned over 14 years, and while his brother’s flashy style and bold personality often dominated the headlines, Dick earned the respect of his peers and fans for his thoughtful approach to the game.

His passing has left a void in the hockey world, where tributes have poured in from across the globe. Dick Cherry’s death is a moment of sorrow not only for his family, friends, and fellow athletes but for all who admired his dignified manner, his professionalism, and his contributions to the sport.

The Early Years: A Quiet Start in Kingston

Born Richard Cherry on May 7, 1936, in Kingston, Ontario, Dick grew up in a household where hockey was more than just a game – it was a way of life. His older brother, Don, had already set the stage for a future in the spotlight. Yet, Dick, ever the quieter of the two, was determined to carve his own path. In the neighborhood, the two brothers would often play hockey on the outdoor rinks, honing their skills and developing a bond that would remain strong throughout their lives.

Despite the shadow cast by his older brother, who was known for his brash personality and flamboyant style, Dick’s demeanor was far more reserved. While Don thrived on the public eye, Dick preferred the behind-the-scenes work. It was a contrast that would define their careers in the hockey world.

The NHL Journey: A Steady Defenseman with Unmatched Skill

Dick’s professional hockey journey began in 1956 when he was signed by the Boston Bruins. His impressive play as a defenseman quickly caught the attention of NHL scouts, and he made his debut with the Bruins during the 1957-58 season. Over the next several years, Dick would become a key figure in the Bruins’ defensive lineup, known for his calm demeanor, precise play, and exceptional skill at both ends of the ice.

In total, Dick Cherry played 14 seasons in the NHL, with his career spanning from 1957 to 1971. Although he wasn’t as well-known as his brother, Dick was widely respected by those who knew the game. His approach to defense was considered ahead of its time, with a focus on positioning, anticipation, and defensive strategy, rather than the more physical, aggressive style that had come to dominate the sport during the 1960s and 1970s.

During his time with the Boston Bruins, Dick played alongside some of the NHL’s most formidable talents. He became a staple of the team’s defensive corps, contributing significantly to the success of the Bruins in the years he was with them. His ability to read the game and control the tempo from the back end was one of his greatest assets. Known for his poised and composed nature, Dick was often called upon in crucial moments, especially in tight games where his calm under pressure made him invaluable.

A Short Stint with the Philadelphia Flyers and Rochester Reds

While Dick Cherry is often associated with his years in Boston, his professional career also saw him make stops with other teams, most notably the Philadelphia Flyers. He played three seasons with the Flyers between 1967 and 1970, and although his time with the team was brief, his impact was still significant. His leadership, knowledge of the game, and steady presence on the blue line made him a key player during his tenure with the Flyers.

Dick also spent time with the Rochester Reds, a minor league team that was part of the American Hockey League (AHL), from 1959 to 1961. These three seasons were formative in his development as a player and provided him with the opportunity to refine his skills in a more competitive environment. Though many fans in the U.S. and Canada may not remember his AHL days as fondly as his NHL career, it was during this period that Dick honed his game and built the foundation for his subsequent success at the highest level of hockey.

Despite his contributions to various teams, it was his time with the Boston Bruins that would ultimately define Dick’s legacy in the world of professional hockey. His steady, reliable play, and commitment to the team helped solidify his status as one of the league’s respected defenders during the late 1950s and 1960s.

Dick Cherry’s Legacy as a Player: A Better Defenseman Than Don?

One of the more intriguing aspects of Dick Cherry’s career was the way he was often compared to his more famous older brother, Don. While Don was a legendary figure in the world of hockey broadcasting and coaching, and is remembered for his bombastic personality, Dick was often considered a more refined and technically gifted player. In fact, many of Dick’s peers and analysts within the sport regarded him as a better defenseman than Don, largely because of his meticulous attention to detail, positioning, and defensive strategy.

While Don’s style was more about showmanship, power, and physicality, Dick’s approach was more understated yet equally effective. He was known for making smart, instinctive plays, often cutting off passes before they developed or stepping up in key moments to stop opposing offenses from gaining traction. His understanding of the game and his calm demeanor on the ice made him a vital component of every team he played for.

For many fans, it was Dick’s quiet brilliance on the ice that earned him the most respect. He wasn’t looking for attention or accolades, but rather, focused solely on the task at hand – doing his job as a defenseman to the best of his ability. And for those who truly understood the intricacies of the game, it was clear that Dick Cherry’s contributions to his teams were invaluable.

A Legacy Beyond the Ice: Coaching and Commentary

Even after his playing days came to an end, Dick Cherry continued to influence the world of hockey in meaningful ways. Following his retirement from the NHL in 1971, Dick transitioned to a coaching career, where he worked with several teams, including stints as a minor league coach and advisor. He was known for his attention to detail and his ability to instill discipline and defensive strategy in his players.

Although he never pursued a high-profile coaching career at the professional level like his brother Don, Dick’s contributions to the game continued. He was often sought after for his expertise and insights into the game’s finer points, especially when it came to defensive strategies. His role as a coach, though less glamorous than his brother’s public persona, was nonetheless instrumental in shaping the careers of many young players who benefited from his mentorship.

In addition to coaching, Dick also made occasional appearances in the media, where his quiet, measured approach to hockey analysis was a welcome contrast to his brother’s bombastic commentary. While Don was a fixture on television as a host and commentator for Hockey Night in Canada, Dick occasionally appeared as a guest analyst, offering his insights into the game with a calm professionalism that fans appreciated.

The Outpouring of Tributes: A Nation Mourns the Loss

As news of Dick Cherry’s passing spread, tributes from across the hockey world began to flood social media and various media outlets. Fans, players, coaches, and teams alike expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of one of hockey’s quiet legends.

The Toronto Maple Leafs, one of Canada’s most storied franchises, issued a heartfelt statement expressing their condolences to the Cherry family. The statement acknowledged Dick’s tremendous contributions to the game, noting his steady play and leadership on and off the ice. The Bruins also released a tribute, recognizing Dick’s time with the team and his status as one of the finest defensemen of his era.

The Boston Bruins Fans Club shared a message on social media, saying, “R.I.P. Dick Cherry. Dick passed away yesterday, March 7, 2025. He was 88. Considered a better defenseman than Don, his flamboyant older brother, Dick played three seasons with the Reds (1959-61) and three seasons in the NHL with Boston and Philadelphia over a 14-year pro career. Our condolences to his family, friends, and fans.”

Remembering Dick Cherry: A Legacy of Dedication, Skill, and Humility

As the hockey world comes to terms with the loss of Dick Cherry, one thing is clear: His legacy as a player, coach, and commentator will not be forgotten. While his brother Don may have garnered more attention due to his larger-than-life persona, it was Dick’s unwavering dedication to the game, his technical brilliance as a defenseman, and his humble demeanor that made him one of hockey’s unsung heroes.

In the days to come, there will undoubtedly be a celebration of his life and career, with countless stories shared by those who knew him best. Whether it was his quiet leadership on the ice, his impact as a coach, or the influence he had on the players he mentored, Dick Cherry’s contribution to hockey will continue to be felt for generations to come.

To those who had the privilege of knowing him, Dick Cherry will always be remembered as a true professional, a great player, and a humble legend in the world of hockey. His passing leaves behind a legacy that is as timeless as the game itself.