RIP, Bobby Orazietti
He was a small centre who was fast and could score and set up his line mates with quick passes. Bobby Orazietti, who wore no. 9 and played for the Jr. A Soo Greyhounds from 1962 to 1964 when they were members of the Northern Ontario Hockey Association, passed away recently at the age of 78.
His older brother, Joe Orazietti, told Hockey News North that Bobby was still playing pick up hockey. In fact, said Joe, Bobby was playing hockey with a group of friends just before his sudden passing.
During his NOHA playing days with the Greyhounds, Bobby was part of teams that among others, included the likes of goalies Tony Esposito, Bill White and Bill Vanderburg, defensemen Billy Orazietti, Archie Orazietti, Chester Depoli, John Fuselli, Don Hill and Roy Yarema, and forwards Brian Baber, Billy Basawa, Mel Baxter, Billy Boychuk, Bernie Darlow, Jim Fuller, George Kosteniuk, Leroy LaFleur, Ralph Madill, Wayne Maki, Ken Rainbird, Jean Thivierge and Terry Wall.
Bobby and Billy Orazietti were twin brothers and Archie Orazietti was a cousin.
The aforementioned Joe Orazietti recalled the days of when his younger brothers and cousin were playing for the Greyhounds and his brother-in-law, Ralph Palmquist, was a star player and the captain of the rival Espanola Eagles.
“Games between the two teams — they didn’t like one another — always featured a lot of fights and the (Memorial) Gardens was packed with fans … and here I was with my twin brothers Bobby and Billy and my cousin Archie on one team and my wife’s brother Ralph on the other team,” Joe recalled with a laugh. “It was such good hockey.”
Abbie Naccarato was the coach of the Greyhounds back then and the legendary Red McCarthy coached Espanola.
Notably, Bobby’s twin brother Billy went on to become a famed musher and local legend who took part in the Iditarod dogsled race of more than 1,100 miles. Billy died tragically in February of 1994 while trying to save his dogs from drowning.
As for Bobby, after his hockey playing days he went to work in the family business, which was the iconic Orazietti Furniture store. His recent passing has left older brother Joe with a numb feeling.
“Here he was, playing hockey and seemingly healthy one day and then gone the next,” said Joe. “You just never know.”
RIP, Bobby O.
Kudos randy nice story about Bobby o may he rip.
Very nicely done Randy. I knew the Family well. Rest In Peace Bobby…
Randy, a nice article about a fine fellow. I have fond memories of Bobby and his family. We were childhood pals and played hockey together in elementary school. It was always fun to meet up with Bob and reminisce about the old Albert and Spring Street neighborhood.
RIP BOBBY O.
So sorry Paula to hear of Bobby’s passing …I sure remember all the laughs at Aggies shoe store , He will be missed .
Kelly Ann Albanese
Paula, I’m so sorry to hear of Bobby’s passing. Sincere condolences to
you and all of your family. Prayers going your way.
Brenda Wierzbick
So sorry to hear of Bobby’s untimely passing. I played many games against the Orazietti boys while playing with the Michigan Sault senior hockey league Mohawks. Many of the names mentioned in your well written obituary I remember playing against. The games were very competitive and hard fought, but fun.
Thoughts and prayers go out to family and friends.
RIP Bobby
Tom Farnquist
Bobby was a good friend and always a pleasure to be around. RIP Bobby O…..
Well said Randy he will be missed he was a great neighbor
I was shocked to hear this sad news. Bobby was my neighbor for a number of years and then I had the best times playing hockey with him for a few years with the Soo Flyers Oldtimers. His personality with us on and off the ice kept us laughing and enjoying our 3 time weekly skates.
We would retire to the Elks for a few after the games and Bobby aka “The Sheriff’ would continue to keep us laughing.
Just a good guy and I will miss our times. Swift journey my friend.
Our prayers and sympathies to Paula and the Family
Charly, Debbie Murray & Family
Dear Paula, Bobby, Robin and extended family. We so very sad to hear of Bobby’s passing. We have known you both for many years and the world just lost such a bright light. Bobby always had a joke to tell. Bobby always made people laugh and he brought such joy into the lives he touched day to day. He was just an amazing person and we want you to know that you are in our hearts and thoughts and may all the warm and wonderful memories that you have all shared together continue to bring you comfort and peace. All our love Mark and Joe