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Gretzky’s call has been difficult for the past two years with Alzheimer’s and Down syndrome complications in this stage of Moss’s life and especially this year with his hip replacement surgery and hospital and facility isolations in connection with the coronavirus pandemic.
However, COVID-19 was not a factor in his death.
“Janet and I are saddened to have Joey Moss passed away. Not only was Joey a staple of the Edmonton locker room, he was someone I really considered a friend. We will miss you Joey and you will always live on through our memories. Our thoughts are with Joey’s loved ones, ”Gretzky said in a statement.
“On behalf of all the players who have had the honor to meet him, we are so sad to hear the news of Joey’s death. We have all been fortunate to have been part of his life for many years. His love for life always brought a smile to everyone who met him. Whether it was a pre-workout coffee or a big hug after a big win or a tough loss, he would put life in perspective. He is missing but not forgotten. Once an oiler, always an oiler. RIP Joe. “
There was almost certainly never a sports franchise employee as loved or as famous in the community as Joey Moss.
There are many less famous members of the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame than Moss, who was inducted in 2015.
Stafford always made the point when asked about Joey Moss:
“He’s not a locker room attendant for someone who knows him and works with him. He’s part of the team. In many ways, he’s the face of the Oilers. “
