I grew up in a neighbourhood in Toronto. We lived three houses from the Connie Smyth family. My mom and aunt went to school with their kids.
I saw Frank Mahovlich, Carl Brewer, and Bobby Hull play as juniors.
The family has had seasons tickets in Toronto since the '50s. I'm not sure anyone can afford to go, though.
Never saw Howe play in person.
I think my all time favorite is Orr. Don't remember seeing him play either. My uncle knew his family.
Moved to Vancouver as a kid in' 58, played hockey with a guy who at the time was the stickboy from age 10 with the WHL Canucks, and is still with the team.
I skated up until a few years ago, but got tired of skating round and round.