Guy Lafleur public visitation: thousands visit Bell Centre as Habs legend lies in state
Posted May 1, 2022 6:00 am.
Last Updated May 1, 2022 2:40 pm.
Quebecers lined up Sunday for the opportunity to pay their respects to a man who forever marked the province’s culture, became synonymous with one of the most storied franchises in sports history, and inspired millions with his kindness and winning ways.
Canadiens legend Guy Lafleur will lie in state at Montreal’s Bell Centre for two days for public visitations ahead of his national funeral on Tuesday.
IN PHOTOS: Fans pay tribute to Canadiens legend Guy Lafleur
Lafleur died April 22 at age 70 following a battle with lung cancer.
He helped the Canadiens win the Stanley Cup in 1973, and then again four more times from 1976 to 1979.
Fans will have the opportunity to pay homage to Lafleur on Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. and Monday from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Those wanting to attend the public visitation are being asked to enter the Bell Centre on Avenue des Canadiens-de-Montréal.
Quebec Premier François Legault, who previously called Lafleur the “greatest player in the history of the NHL,” is set to be among those paying his respects Sunday.
Lafleur’s national funeral is scheduled for Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Mary Queen of the World Cathedral in downtown Montreal.
READ MORE: Hockey world, politicians react to passing of Guy Lafleur
“Out of respect for the public, which has supported Guy over the years, the Lafleur family has agreed to share their grief with the community,” the Canadiens organization said in a statement last week.
“And in keeping with the family’s wishes, all activities will reflect the image of the late hockey legend: they will be humble and accessible.”
Legault said he made the offer to the Lafleur family in the hours following his death. He said the government was looking at other tributes.
National honours were also granted to Canadiens stars Maurice Richard and Jean Beliveau when they died.
