Dave Waddell writes that Dale Hawerchuk, who Ferguson drafted first overall at the 1981 NHL draft for the Winnipeg Jets, will be one of the many people on hand.

“I was just 18, so he was like a father to me,” Hawerchuk said. “It’s a sad day for hockey losing him. I’m so grateful I got to know him. He was one of the most passionate hockey people I’ve ever met. It was quite easy for his players to get motivated because he just exuded it.”

Known mostly for his fighting, Ferguson was also a top-six forward who scored 29 goals one season. When asked if he had a favourite hand to use in fights, Ferguson replied: “Yes, whichever one was free.”

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