SASKATOON - Vic Howe, Gordie Howe's younger brother and a former NHL player with the New York Rangers, has died. He was 85.

Helen Cummine, the Howes' sister, said Vic Howe died Saturday in Moncton, New Brunswick, days before a family gathering in Saskatoon. She said he had dementia and suffered a heart attack.

The 86-year-old Gordie Howe had two disabling strokes late last year. His family has said his health has improved after stem-cell treatment as part of a clinical trial in Mexico.

Vic Howe had three goals and four assists in 33 games with the Rangers in parts of three seasons from 1950 to 1955.