Borje Salming laid to rest today in his native Sweden

Hockey Hall of Famer Borje Salming was officially laid to rest today in Stockholm, Sweden.

Swedish-language newspaper Expressen published the news of Salming's funeral today, stating that Salming was laid to rest in a small, private ceremony amongst friends and family.

Regrettably, long-time friend and Toronto Maple Leafs teammate Darryl Sittler was not able to attend the event, but he spoke to Expressen about his future plans.

From Expressen (translated from Swedish):

On Tuesday, the family said goodbye to the hockey icon together with Salming's closest friends in Stockholm. The family chose to keep the funeral closed to other guests, to have a private moment together to say goodbye.

Among the guests were comrades from the Sami community, and friends from a long and successful ice hockey career in Kiruna AIF, Brynäs and the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

- They had a low-key, private ceremony, says Salming's long-time teammate and close friend Darryl Sittler, who was invited but could not come to Sweden.

- We sent a greeting to the family, but we couldn't go now. It was difficult with the timing, with Christmas and travel, and they understood that. But we look forward to meeting them in February when we come to Sweden, he says.

Instead, he - who together with wife Luba also became close friends with Pia Salming over the years - will take a video call with the family when they feel ready. 

Salming passed away late last month after a brief, but courageous battle with ALS. He made his final public appearance during this year's Hall of Fame festivities in Toronto and received a very touching standing ovation prior to the Leafs' game against the visiting Vancouver Canucks.

Salming would pass away just days after this incredible ovation.

Frankly, I'm too young to have ever seen Salming play but I really have to credit the Leafs organization for giving him his much deserved victory lap last month. I've been educated on what an impactful player he was and what he means to the history of this sport, particularly as it pertains to the sport's Swedish influence. RIP to a legend. Gone, but never forgotten.