Guy Lafleur's humility, flair remembered in national funeral for Habs legend

Quebecers and hockey fans around the world gaveCanadiens legend Guy Lafleur a final send-off,as the province helda national funeral in his honour.

Lafleur, who captured five Stanley Cup titles and was a hero in Quebec not only for his athletic prowess but also his kindness and generosity, died after a series of prolonged health issues, including lung cancer. He was 70.

The funeral for the manknown affectionately asle Dmon Blond took place at MaryQueen of the World Cathedral in downtown Montreal.

Achoir performed as Lafleur's casket draped in the Montreal Canadiensflag was carried to the front of the cathedral.

Montreal ArchbishopChristian Lpinepresided over the funeral. Quebec icon Ginette Reno performed her 1991 hit song L'essentiel,modifying some of her lyrics to address the hockey legend.

Michel Lacroix, the Montreal Canadiens' in-arena announcer, introducedseveral speakers throughout the ceremony. Many chose to weara black and white pin with the number 10 on it, in honour of Lafleur's jersey number.

Geoff Molson, the team's owner, was the first to speak, followed by Lafleur'slongtime teammate and captain Yvan Cournoyer.

CournoyerhighlightedLafleur's love for hockey and how difficult it was for him to stay away from the game following his first retirement. He shared a story about how his friend, seemingly bored, had once cleaned his car three times in a single day.

Lafleur would eventually decide to end his retirement and resume his playing career.

"Guy left us too soon. But if he wants to make another comeback, you are more than welcome," Cournoyer said, before beginning a chant of "Guy!" a common cheerinLafleur's heyday sparking a round of applause from the audience.

'One of the boys'

Guy Carbonneau, another former Canadiens captain, shared stories about being a rookie on a team surrounded byLafleur and other Habs greats who were already veterans at that point.

"When I got to my first training camp with the Canadiens, I had to pinch myself. From the first day, they put me [on aline] with Steve Shutt and Guy Lafleur," Carbonneau said.

"From what I remember, I don't believe I touched the puck a single time out of fear of disappointing them."

Carbonneau described him as a superstar who was also "one of the boys."

The funeral followedtwo days of public visitationat the Bell Centre, where thousands lined up for hours for a chance to pay their respects.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Quebec Premier Franois Legaultwereamong thedignitaries who attended. They both addressed reporters prior to the ceremony.

"His contributionsto the world around him werelegendary and an inspiration to us all," said Trudeau.

Legaultsaid Lafleurwas an "idol for the Quebec nation."

"We were so proud that a guy coming from here was the best player in the world," said the premier.

When the funeral procession arrived, a large crowd outside the cathedral began chanting Lafleur's name. Many of themwatched the ceremony on big screens setup outside.

Claude Benard, one of the fans outside the cathedral, recalledashortyet memorable interaction with the Habs great during the 1970s when he attended a Team Canada intrasquad game.He got to take a photo with Lafleur and also received his autograph.

"He signed so many autographs," Benard said. "I think he has the world record of professional athletes."

'You're a real one'

Lafleur's hockey greatness, his charitable nature and his humility were common themes in Tuesday's speeches.

Martin Lafleur, Guy's son, said his father always remained humble despite his legendary status. His favourite memories with his father include going to practices at the old Montreal Forum, playing alongside his dad in games that featured other Habs legends anddays spent barbecuing at home near the pool.

WATCH | Guy Lafleur's son eulogizes Montreal Canadiens legend:

'My father was an exceptional man,' says Guy Lafleur's son

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Duration 2:33

Martin Lafleur gives heartfelt eulogy at Guy Lafleur's funeral.

"Even if he would burn the hamburgers on the barbecue every time and blame, of course,the barbecue," said Lafleur's son.

Francine Barr, the Habs legend's sister-in-law,began her speech by highlighting the "strength and courage" Lafleur's widow, Lise, displayed duringher husband'sbattle with cancer.

She then lauded her brother-in-law for always being receptive to fans, no matter how many times he was approached for a picture or an autograph. In her eyes, Lafleur was a "diamond in the rough" that "no one succeeding in polishing."

"And I tip my hat to him for that," she said.

"Whether it was in his personal or professional life, Guy did things his way."

Legendary Canadiens goaltender Patrick Roy likened his relationship with Lafleur to a hockey game featuring three periods: The first period being their brieftime spent as teammates, the second being their time as opponents, and the third being their post-retirement friendship.

"In light of the huge void that your death has created, I admit that I would be up for an overtime [period]," Roy said. "Rest in peace, my friend. Everyone here knows you're a real one."

WATCH | Habs legend Patrick Roy describes Guy Lafleur as a teammate:

Patrick Roy shares story of his 1st Canadiens practice with Guy Lafleur

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Duration 0:58

During an emotional speech, Patrick Roy shares his story of hitting the ice for the first time as a Canadien with his teammate and hero Guy Lafleur.