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Add the andPOP Facebook Application(andPOP) - The country's most famous hockey dad, a late-night music director and a basketball star are just some of the new appointees to the Order of Canada.
Walter Gretzky, Paul Shaffer and Steve Nash were among the 40 Canadians named to the Order Friday by Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean.
Created in 1967, the Order is the country's highest civilian honour for Canadians who have contributed to a better Canada.
This year's list included writers, musicians, athletes and political and business leaders from across the country.
Gretzky, father of the NHL's all-time leading scorer Wayne Greztky, is being recognized for his long-time involvement with various charities and contributions to minor hockey.
Shaffer, music director for "Saturday Night Live" (1975-80) and "The Late Show with David Letterman" (1982-present), is receiving the honour for his work as a musician and as a supporter of groups like Epilepsy Canada.
Nash, point guard for the Pheonix Suns, is actively involved in charity and humanitarian work, establishing the Steve Nash Foundation in 2001 and founding the Jim Jennings Memorial Fund.
Also among the winners announced Friday were internationally renowned visual artist Michael Snow and UN high commissioner for human rights Louise Arbour, who have been named to the top rank of Companions of the Order.
