Gretzky's Mother Dies of Cancer at 64

TORONTO — Phyllis Gretzky, the mother of Canadian hockey icon Wayne Gretzky, passed away Monday night from cancer, the Phoenix Coyotes said. She was 64 years old.

Phyllis Gretzky had battled lung cancer since the fall of 2004.

Wayne Gretzky took a leave of absence from coaching the Coyotes Saturday night to return home to Brantford, Ontario, to spend time with his ailing mother.

Phyllis Gretzky is survived by her husband Walter, who is popular throughout Canada as a goodwill hockey ambassador.

Her children include first born Wayne, daughter Kim and other sons Keith, Glen and Brent.