Graves of Smythe, Ballard Neglected

An interesting read from Steve Buffery of QMI this morning....

Many of the graves and headstones are lovingly preserved and enhanced with candles and flowers and other features that speak of the person’s life and accomplishments. Healey’s has a guitar and trumpet beautifully engraved on his headstone.

Some graves, however, seem neglected. One of those is the resting spot of former Toronto Maple Leafs owner Harold Ballard.

Of course, it’s a family’s prerogative to attend to a loved one’s grave site as they see fit. But you might think — given the Maple Leafs’ historical significance in this country, and this city especially — that the organization might do a better job in preserving or commemorating the final resting place of two of the team’s former owners, principally the franchise founder. At least lay a wreath from time to time.

Former Maple Leafs Sports & Entertainment president and CEO Richard Peddie said he doesn’t remember the organization ever commemorating either Smythe or Ballard at their grave sites. It may have happened, but he doesn’t recall if and when, and there certainly weren’t any wreaths on this day.

Here's the full story.