The NHL Alumni Association is deeply saddened to learn that Mark LaForest has passed away at the age of 62.
After a stellar junior season with the North Bay Centennials in 1982-83, Mark signed with the Detroit Red Wings ahead of the 1983-84 season, splitting time between Detroit affiliates in Adirondack, Kalamazoo, and Mohawk Valley over the next two seasons.
On December 3rd, 1985, Mark made his NHL debut for Detroit against the Philadelphia Flyers at Joe Louis Arena. The Welland, Ontario native turned away 35 of 36 shots, picking up his first career victory in his first career game. Less than two months later, on January 28, 1986, Mark stopped all 26 attempts from the visiting Washington Capitals, en route to his first career shutout.
At the conclusion of the 1986-87 season, Mark was traded to the Flyers. After two seasons with the Flyers organization, Mark would go on to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs for the 1989-90 NHL season, and after a few seasons in the AHL, he would play his final NHL games with the Ottawa Senators during the 1993-94 season.
Mark was a regular on the NHL Alumni Tour, tending goal for the Alumni team for 10 years. He was heavily involved with the Alumni, including trips to Kandahar to visit the troops, and could be seen strapping on the pads for the Maple Leafs during their outdoor practices and other community events.
We send our heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family, friends, and former teammates during this incredibly difficult time.