Francis Joseph “Red” Kane (1923-2016) may be best known as the namesake for F.J. “Red” Kane Park in South Arlington, but he was also a professional athlete, businessman, and community leader.
Kane was born on January 19, 1923, in Ontario, Canada. He came from a large family that had 12 children. He had a boyhood dream of becoming a professional hockey player, which he fulfilled.
F. J. “Red” Kane
Photo Credit: dignitymemorial.com
Kane’s hockey career began in 1943 when he signed with the Detroit Red Wings. Although his time with the Red Wings was brief, he continued playing for various minor leagues and teams for nearly a decade—including a stint with the Fort Worth Rangers of the United States Hockey League from 1946 to 1949. He played in nearly 450 games throughout his career. At 5’11” and 190 pounds during his hockey days, he was a defenseman with a tough and aggressive style. He also played baseball in the Canadian-American League for several seasons.
Red Kane playing hockey in 1943
Photo Credit: Arlington Parks and Recreation
F.J. “Red” Kane career hockey stats
Photo Credit: HockeyDB.com
After retiring from professional sports in 1952, Kane and his wife, Lorna, settled in Fort Worth and later in Arlington. He purchased a laundry business, which he expanded to four locations. He became a U.S. Citizen in 1958, although he often returned to Canada to visit family and friends.
Kane was appointed to Arlington’s Parks and Recreation Board in 1963. He served for 18 years and was Chairman from 1976 to 1981. In 1995, F.J. “Red” Kane Park was dedicated in his honor. Amenities include a basketball court, a pond for fishing, a playground, a greenspace, and hiking trails that connect to the O. W. Fannin Natural Area. The park offers a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of Cooper Street.
F.J. “Red” Kane Park
F.J. “Red” Kane Park
Photo Credit: Arlington Parks and Recreation
Mr. Kane never met a stranger and liked to tell stories. He loved to ice skate and was known to be a graceful dancer.
He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He passed away on March 29, 2016, at age 93, and is buried at Moore Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Arlington.
Somewhere along the way, he picked up the nickname “Red.”
Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 11-02-24
Jason S. Sullivan 