Tim Horton

Canadian ice hockey player and entrepreneur

Miles Gilbert "Tim" Horton (January 12, 1930 – February 21, 1974) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player and entrepreneur, best known as a defenceman for the Toronto Maple Leafs and as a co-founder of the Tim Hortons restaurant chain.

Early Life

Tim Horton was born in Cochrane, Ontario, and grew up in the small town of Dunlop, Ontario. From a young age, Horton showed a keen interest in sports, particularly hockey. His talent on the ice was evident early on, and he quickly became a standout player in local leagues.

Hockey Career

Tim Horton in his Toronto Maple Leafs uniform

Horton began his professional hockey career with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1950. Known for his strength and defensive skills, he became a key player for the team. Horton was instrumental in helping the Maple Leafs win four Stanley Cup championships in the 1960s.

After his time with the Maple Leafs, Horton played for the New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Buffalo Sabres. His career spanned 24 seasons, making him one of the longest-serving players in the history of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Playing Style

Horton was renowned for his physical style of play and his ability to shut down opposing forwards. His strength and endurance made him a formidable presence on the ice, and he was respected by teammates and opponents alike.

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Tim Horton on a Chex hockey card

In 1964, Horton opened the first Tim Hortons doughnut shop in Hamilton, Ontario. The business quickly grew, becoming a beloved Canadian institution known for its coffee and doughnuts. Horton's vision was to create a welcoming place for people to gather and enjoy quality food and beverages.

The success of the Tim Hortons chain is a testament to Horton's entrepreneurial spirit and his understanding of the Canadian market. Today, Tim Hortons is one of the largest fast-food chains in Canada, with thousands of locations worldwide.

Personal Life

Horton was married to Lori Horton, and together they had two daughters. Despite his busy career, Horton was known for his dedication to his family and his community.

Death

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Graves of Tim Horton and Lori Horton in York Cemetery in Toronto

Tragically, Tim Horton died in a car accident on February 21, 1974, near St. Catharines, Ontario. His death was a significant loss to the hockey community and to the many fans of his restaurant chain.

Legacy

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Statue of Tim Horton

Tim Horton's legacy lives on through the Tim Hortons restaurant chain and his contributions to the sport of hockey. He was posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1977, recognizing his impact on the game.

The Tim Hortons chain continues to be a symbol of Canadian culture, and Horton's name is synonymous with quality and community spirit.

Related Pages

• Toronto Maple Leafs
• Tim Hortons
• Hockey Hall of Fame