The Pittsburgh Penguins will honor Steelers legend Franco Harris on Thursday by wearing No. 32 decals on their helmets for Thursday night’s game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PPG Paints Arena. The Penguins revealed the news by posting a photo of the No. 32 decal on a helmet and a caption saying, “Commemorating Franco.”
Commemorating Franco 💛🖤 pic.twitter.com/60OGUh3MIc
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) December 22, 2022
Harris passed away on Wednesday at the age of 72, just two days before the 50th Anniversary of the Immaculate Reception and three days before the retirement of his No. 32 jersey.
On Wednesday afternoon, Penguins owner Mario Lemieux issued a statement on the passing of Harris. “We are all stunned and saddened by the passing of Franco Harris – a Pittsburgh icon and a true champion on and off the field. Franco will be remembered for his grace, his humility, his kindness, and his tremendous contributions to our community. Rest in peace.”
Penguins captain Sidney Crosby also touched on Harris’ passing and what he meant to the city of Pittsburgh.
“I know what he means to the city and the (Steelers) organization,” Crosby said. “It’s sad. They were gonna have a ceremony for him this weekend. It’s sad news. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and the Steelers.”
The Penguins honored Harris on Nov. 1 with his own No. 32 jersey. The Pirates also released a statement.
“We join the entire Pittsburgh community in mourning the loss of the legendary Franco Harris. Our thoughts are with the Harris family and all of Steelers Nation.”
Lemieux said it best, Franco Harris is a Pittsburgh icon. He was beloved by the entire city.
The Steelers have canceled most of the planned ceremonies on the North Shore on Friday to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Immaculate Reception in the wake of the death of Harris and a winter storm forecast to hit the area.