Tim Horton

Tim Horton (January 12, 1930 – February 21, 1974) was a Canadian professional ice hockey player. He is also co-founder of the Tim Hortons chain, one of the largest quick-service restaurant chains in Canada specializing in coffee, doughnuts, and other fast food items.

Early Life

Horton was born in Cochrane, Ontario, Canada. He showed an early interest in hockey, playing with teams in his local community before moving on to play professionally.

Hockey Career

Horton began his professional hockey career with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1949. He played as a defenceman and was known for his strength and stability on the ice. During his 24-season career in the National Hockey League (NHL), Horton also played for the New York Rangers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Buffalo Sabres. He was a key player in the Maple Leafs' winning the Stanley Cup four times in the 1960s.

Tim Hortons Chain

In 1964, Horton co-founded the Tim Hortons chain with Jim Charade. The first store opened in Hamilton, Ontario, selling coffee and doughnuts. The chain quickly expanded across Canada and later entered the U.S. market. Today, Tim Hortons is a symbol of Canadian identity and culture.

Death and Legacy

Horton died in a car accident in 1974. His legacy lives on through the Tim Hortons chain and the Tim Horton Children's Foundation, a non-profit charitable organization established in his name.

See Also

• List of NHL players
• List of fast food restaurant chains
• History of ice hockey