I met John Hebert in 1992 at Tuesday Night Hockey at McCormicks Arena. A tradition that started back in 1982 and continued till COVID-19 interrupted our lives last March. Tragically now I feel that the heart of Tuesday Night Hockey has been taken from us with the news of Johnny’s passing.

Yes that’s right. To all of us his name is Johnny. Never John during hockey. Just like I am Louie. It’s our hockey names. Over the years as he walked in the dressing room I would great him with a “JOHNNAY!!!”

It was obvious right off the bat from the warm up the he was a smooth and natural skater. During the game I also learned how great a hockey player he was as well. Over the years I had been a recipient of many of his hooks over the years. Johnny loved to score and always played forward. I usually played defence. We would battle each other like two competitors do playing for the Stanley Cup. That elusive Imaginary Cup that all used-to-be’s or never-was’s play for when playing shinny.  His dressing room banter, stories about work and family, were always fun to listen to. He was a natural leader in the room as well. A welcome addition to TNH is Nicole and Daniel. The apple does not fall for from the tree. All of the Hebert grit were factory installed to both of his two beautiful children who are both what we like to call the “Regulars”.

The Tuesday night tradition of after hockey beers was just as important to Johnny as much as playing the game. Johnny and I both took turns needling anybody who didn’t come. This is where I really got to know John Hebert the man. A deeply honourable and honest man. A caring and loving husband and father. A real friend who always gave it to you straight. Without the BS but without being insulting. A rare gift.

A few years ago we were all shocked to learn about his cancer. I’ll never forget him telling us in the dressing room as we were lacing up. We were teasing him about having a routine colonoscopy when his face was blank. He was trying to smile as he told us the news. I swallowed hard, held back the tears. I followed his lead and went out for the skate. He battled cancer as as hard as he played and lived his life. He bounced back so many times I thought he was Superman. In the end what I’ve come to realize is that John Hebert was a SuperHuman.

Johnny I will miss you but I will never forget you. You were a good friend and confident over the years. remember, if I get the puck behind the net, start skating up and curl into the centre so I can feed you the puck.

Your friend with love, Lou Ceccato
RIP Johnny