The Philadelphia Flyers announced Tuesday that former player Forbes Kennedy has died at the age of 90.
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Kennedy passed away May 25, according to the organization.
Known affectionately as "Forbie," Kennedy spent two seasons with the Flyers during the franchise's earliest years and became one of the club's most beloved original players despite standing just 5-foot-8.
The rugged forward earned a reputation as one of the toughest pound-for-pound players of his era, bringing relentless energy and physicality every night.
"There was absolutely no quit in the fiery forward," longtime Flyers writer Bill Meltzer wrote in a tribute published by the team.
Former Flyers defenseman Joe Watson remembered Kennedy as both a fierce competitor and terrific teammate.
"It was much better to have Forbie on your side than against you," Watson recalled.
Kennedy played 603 NHL regular-season games during his career with the Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Flyers and Toronto Maple Leafs, recording 70 goals, 108 assists and 888 penalty minutes.
He led the Flyers in penalty minutes during each of his two seasons with the club and quickly became a fan favorite at the Spectrum.
Following his playing career, Kennedy spent years coaching at the minor league and junior levels while remaining closely connected to the Flyers Alumni Association.
In 2017, Kennedy returned to Philadelphia as part of the organization's 50th anniversary celebration, reconnecting with former teammates from the inaugural 1967-68 team.
"I'm going to miss Forbie," Watson said. "Everyone will miss him. Just a great guy and a great teammate."
