Tragedy strikes 13-year NHL veteran Brendan Gallagher and the hockey world is mourning

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Sam Walker
March 20, 2025 (6:34 PM)

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Montreal Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher shared sad news with his fans on Thursday morning.

He posted an emotional message on Instagram, saying that his mother, Della Gallagher, had passed away.

Gallagher included some special photos of him and his mom with his post.

He wrote:

"You were the best mom we could have asked for! I'm thankful for all the great memories we made together. I'll always treasure them.
Every day, I'll want to call you, give you a big hug, and tell you I love you. We'll keep going with everything you taught us, making you proud every day.
Rest in peace, mom. I love you. I miss you."

Emma Fortin, Gallagher's new wife, commented on his post:

"The best mom, grandma, and mother-in-law. You'll always be in our hearts. Love you."

Fortin also shared a video on her own Instagram story. It showed Gallagher celebrating a goal he scored on Tuesday night when the Canadiens beat the Ottawa Senators.

After scoring, Gallagher hit his chest with his hand. Fortin wrote "For Della" on the video.

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On the Canadiens' video of the goal, Gallagher commented: "For mom."

Almost four years ago, doctors found out Della had glioblastoma, a very serious type of brain cancer.

Earlier this month, Gallagher and Fortin had their first baby. It's nice to know Della got to meet her grandchild before she passed away.

We send our thoughts and prayers to Gallagher and everyone who loved Della.

The Canadiens play against the Islanders in New York tonight, and they hope to keep the wins coming for their possibility at a playoff birth.

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Elliotte Friedman addresses 'weird' behavior by Chicago's Connor Bedard

Nick Foligno shares his disgust on a no goal call that couldn't be reviewed

Jason Dickinson's Harsh Words for Teammate Connor Bedard: "It Doesn't Matter"

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MARS 20 \| 233 ANSWERS Tragedy strikes 13-year NHL veteran Brendan Gallagher and the hockey world is mourning Rest in Peace Ms. Gallagher
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Tragedy strikes 13-year NHL veteran Brendan Gallagher and the hockey world is mourning

Montreal Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher shared sad news with his fans on Thursday morning.

Rest in Peace Ms. Gallagher