Moss joined Edmonton in the 1982-83 season in a part-time capacity, according to former center Wayne Gretzky, who recommended him for the position. Moss became a full-time employee in 1984-85, according to the Oilers. He formed bonds with Edmonton players and others in the NHL during his tenure.
Moss, who was born with Down syndrome, also worked with the Edmonton Football Team of the Canadian Football League.
"On behalf of all the players who had the honor to get to know him, we are so saddened to hear the news of Joey's passing," said Gretzky, now an Oilers alternate governor. "We were all lucky enough to be part of his life for a lot of years. His love for life always brought a smile to anyone who met him. Whether it was a coffee before practice or a big hug after a great win or a tough loss, he would put life in perspective. He will be missed but not forgotten. Once an Oiler, always an Oiler. RIP, Joe."
Kevin Lowe, a former Oilers defenseman, coach and general manager, said Moss sparked an increasing awareness and inclusivity through his seasons around the team. Lowe, who is now also an Oilers alternate governor, said they will make an announcement in the coming weeks about a tribute. Several current players, including center Connor McDavid, and alumni
have flooded social media
to honor Moss.
"As the years went on, we realized the outpouring of respect that he had from people and particularly in the Down syndrome world, people recognized him and so many people would stop us on the streets and sent cards and letters saying what Joey had represented to their family, that they had a member with Down syndrome and it meant so much," Lowe said Tuesday. "As time rolled along, we realized Joey was a bigger piece of the overall puzzle in terms of what's going on in the world, not just in our own little world."
Former forward Kelly Buchberger said he'll miss the positive vibes Moss brought to the dressing room. Buchberger was Oilers captain from 1995-99.
"For me, Joey was family," Buchberger said. "There was no question about it. He was part of the Oilers family, but he was more than that; he was like a brother to all of us as players. The time we spent with Joey, we learned something from him."
Moss was inducted into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in 2015.
"On behalf of the entire Oilers organization, I would like to express our deepest condolences to the Moss family and Joey's many friends in our community and across North America," Oilers equipment manager Jeff Lang said. "Joey was an amazing person whose true passion and dedication to the Oilers organization, players and love of the game touched countless members of the hockey community. Joey's legacy is not only in the locker room but throughout all of Oil Country. He will be forever remembered for the amazing impact he has made on so many people along the way. We will miss you Mosser -- a true champion."
