In memory of Carl A. Olender
Coach. Mentor. Confident. Volunteer. Legend. Friend. These are just a few of the words used to describe Windsor Minor Hockey 's longest standing coach. Coach Carl as Carl Olender was affectionately known, was a staple at Knox, Capri and more recently Central Park Athletics.
He began coaching for Windsor Minor back in 1980, after years of coaching at another nearby association. Coach Carl did more than evaluate, direct and guide, he developed the young people he coached into young, respectful, valued players and people. He would often sit surrounded by his team, telling stories of all the NHL, OHL, and other players he met or coached and always had a moral for every story he told. We were all part of his hockey family.
His patriarchy on the bench and with the families he coached will be greatly missed and his lessons will stay with us always.
Rest in peace Coach Carl. You had a way of lighting up the rink whenever you were there. You had a tremendous impact on the players you coached and the people you met. I know how proud you were of them all, and to be a coach. You were a hockey guy through and through, rest easy my friend, we will talk hockey again someday, I'm sure of that.
Thank you to his wife Georgine for sharing Coach Carl with all of us. She encouraged him to continue to share his love of the sport and was often in the arena, out of the limelight, cheering on the teams and Coach Carl from the stands.
Although the 3rd period buzzer has sounded – the game, your impact and the love of hockey will live on in our hearts and your legacy will continue to shape the lives of many.
P.S. You can find obituary here:
https://www.familiesfirst.ca/memorials/carl-a-olender/5180795/index.php