NHL legend Gordie Howe receives an honourary doctorate from University of Saskatchewan Chancellor Vera Pezer during graduation ceremonies in Saskatoon. (Liam Richards/Canadian Press)

Gordie Howe, the hockey legend from the Prairies, was honoured by the University of Saskatchewan Thursday with a doctorate degree.

The 82-year-old's professional hockey career spanned 32 seasons, and along the way he collected four Stanley Cups, amassed more than 1,800 points and was a six-time winner of the National Hockey's League's most valuable player award.

Because he was a statesman for the game, Howe was nicknamed Mr. Hockey, a name he eventually trademarked.

"Beyond his hockey accomplishments, he has demonstrated quiet dignity and a selfless manner," Peter MacKinnon, the president of the University of Saskatchewan, said at the ceremony. "Reminding us that greatness goes beyond our careers and accomplishments."

A native of Floral, Howe rose from humble beginnings in Depression-era Saskatchewan to international hockey stardom.

He always had a modest demeanor off the ice and on Thursday Howe declined to speak at the presentation where he was given a doctorate in law.

Grandson Travis Howe said his grandfather was moved by the honour.

"He had tears in his eyes," he said. "Tears of happiness. I know just being back in Saskatoon meant a whole lot to him."

Hockey fan Bryan Bilokreli was one of the people who suggested the university honour Howe.

"Watching him throughout my childhood and adult life and seeing what he's accomplished in that sport really made me feel that the university and the province had an opportunity to honour him for that," Bilokreli said.

During the presentation, Howe was recognized for his athletic accomplishments and his charity work to help underprivileged children play hockey.