Don Cherry Celebrates 92nd Birthday Amid Renewed Calls for National Recognition
On February 5, 1934, as R.B. Bennett served as Canada's prime minister and Franklin D. Roosevelt led the United States, Donald Stewart Cherry was born in Kingston, Ontario. Today, exactly 92 years later, the legendary hockey personality celebrates another milestone while supporters advocate for his inclusion in both the Hockey Hall of Fame and the Order of Canada.
A Legacy of Patriotism and Hockey Passion
Cherry, affectionately known as "Grapes," remains an enduring figure in Canadian culture. His career spans decades as a coach, broadcaster, and unabashed patriot. He first represented Canada internationally as an assistant coach during the 1976 Canada Cup, later serving as head coach for the 1981 World Hockey Championships in Sweden.
The iconic Coach's Corner segment on Hockey Night in Canada became a national institution for 38 years, where Cherry regularly honored Canadian troops, police officers, firefighters, and hockey players. His heartfelt tributes following tragedies, such as the recent deaths of three junior hockey players in Alberta, resonated deeply with viewers across the country.
The Controversial Exit and Ongoing Support
Cherry's broadcasting career ended abruptly on Remembrance Day 2019 after comments about poppy wearing sparked controversy. Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown recently characterized the incident as "a media pile on," adding that Cherry "didn't deserve that." Many Canadians now share this perspective, believing the legendary broadcaster was unfairly treated.
Despite stepping back from public life, Cherry continues to receive widespread admiration. When he visits local stores near his Mississauga home, he encounters Canadians who express their appreciation for his decades of service to hockey and country.
Growing Movement for Formal Recognition
A grassroots movement is gaining momentum to secure Cherry's place among Canada's most honored citizens. Supporters argue that his contributions to hockey broadcasting and unwavering patriotism merit both Hockey Hall of Fame induction and the Order of Canada.
"There's really no one more deserving of being part of both clubs than this beacon of telling it like it is," advocates note, pointing to Cherry's previous royal recognitions including the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal and King's Coronation medal.
Across Canada, tangible expressions of support continue to emerge:
- A large wooden sculpture of Cherry erected in Mortlach, Saskatchewan
- Special Canadian flags incorporating hockey sticks created in his honor
- A new Don Cherry's sports bar opening in Parry Sound, Ontario
Birthday Celebrations and Looking Forward
As Cherry celebrates his 92nd birthday, he plans to watch Team Canada compete in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, beginning with the women's hockey team facing Finland. For the legendary broadcaster, watching Canadian athletes represent their country remains one of life's greatest honors.
While Cherry himself remains characteristically humble about awards and recognition, his supporters emphasize the importance of honoring his legacy properly. As one advocate stated, "It's time for 'you people' in positions to make this happen to put away political correctness and fete the coach with the honours he's more than earned."
For now, Canadians across the country join in wishing a simple but heartfelt message: Happy Birthday, Donald Stewart Cherry!
