Let's talk about Walter

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Consultation has concluded

The City issued a request to residents to submit their fondest memory of Brantford's beloved Lord Mayor Walter Gretzky. The response was overwhelming as several stories and photos were submitted. Using some of those submissions, a tribute video was created to honour Walter Gretzky and his contributions to Brantford and its residents.

Let's talk about Walter video


The Let's Talk about Walter video is one of the many ways the City will honour the legacy of Brantford's beloved Lord Mayor. In 2020, the City renamed the newly renovated Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course in his honour. Later this year, a

The City issued a request to residents to submit their fondest memory of Brantford's beloved Lord Mayor Walter Gretzky. The response was overwhelming as several stories and photos were submitted. Using some of those submissions, a tribute video was created to honour Walter Gretzky and his contributions to Brantford and its residents.

Let's talk about Walter video


The Let's Talk about Walter video is one of the many ways the City will honour the legacy of Brantford's beloved Lord Mayor. In 2020, the City renamed the newly renovated Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course in his honour. Later this year, a portrait of Walter will be unveiled at the golf course that bears his name. Additionally, Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant is currently raising funds to create a tribute bust in Walter's honour with plans to feature the special tribute at Brantford's new City Hall at 58 Dalhousie Street.


Do you have a story about Walter you'd like to share?

Please tell us about a personal experience that you or someone you know had with Branford's Beloved Lord Mayor, Walter Gretzky. Thank you for sharing. 

Thank you for sharing your story with us.
CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

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    Golden Retriever and Walter

    by Tigger, almost 3 years ago
    I have a few Walter stories like when I was a teenager with blue hair and Walter next me at Timmies and he excitedly said “I guess that means you’re a big Leafs fan!” But, I feel like my favourite one was couple years ago. I was walking my golden retriever Liam and there was a gentleman crossing the street near grace Anglican. Liam immediately started wagging his tail and trying to run towards him, as he got closer I noticed it was Walter and he approached us. He put his hand out and Liam started kissing his hand and... Continue reading
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    Have I Told You Lately That I Love You?

    almost 3 years ago
    I’ve worked at the Tourism Centre since 2015. As a former hockey player, I knew a lot about Walter, but had never met him. He used to drop by a few times each year, and I was always in offsite meetings, on lunch or off for the day. Walter was my Polkaroo! Finally in 2017, I attended a Sport Networking event run by Tourism Brantford. I was there to present an art project to the attendees and saw Walter at a table near the back of the room. It was my first meeting, so I was asked to stand up... Continue reading
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    Unexpected guest

    by Chicklitpixie, almost 3 years ago

    In 2009 my husband and I were having a buck and doe at the polish hall in the downstairs area having a great time and dancing. Next thing we know Walter comes into our buck and doe. He was at an event upstairs and heard all the fun we were having downstairs and decided to take a peek. He asked me to dance and gave my husband and I both a flower and signed little notes from him. It was very sweet and unexpected.

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    Walter holds court

    by callmechris, almost 3 years ago
    Some 10 years ago I went to the McDonald's on King George Road with my parents. Walter was there with Phyllis. It was in the late evening so the restaurant was not packed but in the 45 minutes or so of our meal, Walter worked the restaurant, gong from table to table for a short conversation about whatever. Phyllis just sat at the table drinking her drink. I can't recall the conversation my parents and I had but do remember a lot of laughter. Walter talked to you like he has known you for decades.