Growing up in Fort Frances, Ed 'Sonny' Kryzanowski holds the distinction of being one of the most exceptional all-round athletes to compete in that community, being active in a variety of sports including swimming, football and baseball. It was in the sport of hockey, however, that Ed is perhaps best remembered given the fact that he was the first hockey player from Fort Frances to make it to the National Hockey League.

The road that led him to that distinction started in the minor leagues of his home town during the late 1930s. Following a season with the Fort Frances Canadians senior team and service in the Royal Canadian Navy, Ed made his way to the University of Toronto, playing on defence with the Varsity Blues from 1945-48. Captaining the team for his final two years, he led the team to the Ontario University Athletic Association Championship.

Ed's talents soon caught the eye of some NHL scouts and he made the jump from university hockey directly into the NHL with the Boston Bruins in 1948. A versatile player, Boston Coach Lynn Patrick utilized Ed's talents in every position but goal during his three seasons with the club. Well known for his rugged style which made him an outstanding penalty killer he was said to hand out one of the stiffest checks in the league. Acquired by the Chicago Black Hawks in 1952, Ed then moved into the AHL with the Providence Reds and the Hershey Bears.

Following the 1955-56 season Ed left pro hockey to pursue his teaching career. A Physical Education graduate Ed taught in Atikokan, Warroad and Colorado Springs. While in Warroad, Ed continued his involvement in the game playing senior hockey for the Warroad Lakers and in exhibition games against many touring national teams. In Colorado Springs Ed passed along his talents coaching defencemen at the University of Colorado.

In 1979 Ed returned home to northwestern Ontario becoming involved in the minor league program as a coach. Ed's involvement in the sport of hockey for over 50 years and his talent, dedication and enthusiasm for the game greatly contributed to its growth in Fort Frances and northwestern Ontario.

Inducted into the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, September 28, 1996