It is with great sadness that Hockey NL announces the passing of the late Jim “Sniper” Temple of Grand Falls-Windsor who passed away peacefully at home on September 26, 2026, at the age of 89.  Jim was inducted into the Newfoundland & Labrador Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001.

To many, Sniper was a remarkable hockey player whose talent, determination, and passion for the game made him a name people remembered. He spent countless hours on the ice, creating memories that would last a lifetime and inspiring generations of players who followed.

But to those who knew and loved him, he was so much more than a hockey legend. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great- grandfather, teammate, and a friend who always made time for others. His love for hockey was matched only by his love for his family.

The rink was a place where he excelled, but it was also where many of his lifelong friendships were made. He believed in teamwork, hard work, perseverance, and, most importantly, enjoying the game. He carried those same values with him throughout his life. His accomplishments on the ice will forever be remembered, but it is the stories, laughter, friendships, and moments shared away from the rink that his family and friends will treasure most.

Though the final whistle has sounded, his legacy will live on—in the players he inspired, the teammates who stood beside him, the family who loved him, and the countless people who were fortunate enough to know him.

The jersey may be hung up, but the legend will never be forgotten.

Left to remember him are his wife, Mary; daughters Denise, Debbie (Pearce), and Dorothy; grandchildren Stephanie (Todd), Paul, Natalie (Jimmy), Pearce (Jasmine), Nicole, and Brad (Morgan); and his 11 great-grandchildren Kaeden, Victoria, Lily, Max, Tye, Mark, Nate, Raya, Sydney, Kai, and Leah. Also leaving to mourn are his brother Jim (Gaye); brothers-in-law Mike (Marie), Harold (Dorothy), and Alonzo; sister-in-law Ann (Ray); nieces Tracey and Susan; nephews Jimmy and Chris; and his special buddy Paul Butler; along with a large circle of extended family, lifelong friends, and teammates.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, James and Beatrice Temple; parents-in-law, Mary and Baxter Butler; brother Stan; sister Amanda; brothers-in-law James, Allan, John, and Baxter; sisters-in-law Glad and Edna; and niece Sheila.

Until we meet again, may you always have clear ice, a full rink, and one more game to play.

Visitation
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Central Funeral Homes Chapel
45 Union Street
Grand Falls-Windsor, NL A2A 2C9

Service
Thursday, October 1, 2026
11:00 am
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
7-9 Church Road
GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR,

In leiu of flowers, donations are graciously accept for the Lionel Kelland Hospice:   https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/33531