Meltdown – Bob Probert
It was on this day 12 years ago, we lost a true battler in Bob Probert. I write this today, not because I knew “Probie”. No, I never got to meet him. You see, he was either not allowed to enter the country, or playing with the Blackhawks. I never got to shake the hand of the toughest player in NHL history.
Man, I’ve heard the stories, I know many of his teammates, but he’s definitely on the list of people I regret never getting a chance to meet. The others are Lemmy from Motorhead, and the late Dale Earnhardt.
Funny thing though, even though ours paths never crossed, I feel like they did. I rode in, and even lead, the Bob Probert ride several times. I’ve become friends with his wife, Dani (who’s the BEST) and his family. What a great family it is! Salt of the earth, welcoming people. I can’t say enough good things about what a tribe he created. Plus, all the people I’ve met that knew him as friends, or as hockey brothers. Even though some may’ve tossed fists in his way, they all speak highly of Bob and all had a huge respect for the legend.
Unfortunately, I couldn’t make the ride this year, and it was the last one. I hold all my friends across the river in high regard, and hope I can ride with them soon. Crazy to think how someone I’d never met, has introduced me to some many great people.
-Meltdown-