Watch: Bob Plager takes Stanley Cup to brother Barclay's grave
Today is Bobby Plager’s day with the Stanley Cup. Here’s Bobby and GM Doug Armstrong pouring beer onto brother Barclay’s grave in front of the extended Plager family. It was quite a moment, which I’ll have more on next week @TheAthleticSTL. #stlblues pic.twitter.com/ajjRFCjOH3
— Jeremy Rutherford (@jprutherford) September 2, 2019
Bob Plager brought something special to his brother's grave on Sunday.
The former Blues defenseman took the Stanley Cup to the site in St. Louis where Barclay Plager - also a former blue-liner for the team - is buried.
Bob led a toast for Barclay and other deceased players.
To those who have gone before us. #stlblues #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/9NfgNVHfDv
— St. Louis Blues 🏆 (@StLouisBlues) September 2, 2019
The day was truly a family affair.
Hoist it to the heavens! Barclay's wife, Helen, has her moment with the #StanleyCup. #stlblues pic.twitter.com/Ft1ZFZ5o36
— St. Louis Blues 🏆 (@StLouisBlues) September 2, 2019
After playing parts of three seasons with the New York Rangers, Bob Plager was selected by the Blues in the 1967 expansion draft and joined them for their inaugural season in 1967-68. He suited up for the club until the end of his career in 1977-78.
He lived in St. Louis after retiring and remained close to the team, according to Chris Pinkert of the club's official website.
Barclay Plager played 10 seasons with the Blues from 1967-77 and served in various roles with the team following his retirement, including a pair of stints as head coach. He died in 1988 after being diagnosed with brain cancer.
The youngest Plager brother, Billy, also played defense for the Blues, spending parts of four campaigns with the team from 1968-72. He died in 2016 and is buried in Peterborough, Ontario.