The Ontario Hockey League community will gather to honour the life and legacy of David Branch with a public Celebration of Life on Saturday, January 24 at 1:00 PM at the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa. All are welcome to attend.
Mr. Branch passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at the age of 77. Born in Bathurst, New Brunswick, on November 27, 1948, Branch devoted his professional life to the game of hockey, serving 45 years as Commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League and as past President of the Canadian Hockey League.
Respected throughout the hockey community, Mr. Branch was known for his integrity, steady leadership, and genuine care for the young people whose lives were shaped through the sport. His influence extended far beyond the rink, leaving a lasting mark on the OHL, the CHL, and the game in Canada.
The Celebration of Life will be hosted by Darren Dreger and will include remarks from a number of special guests, including representatives from the Ontario Hockey League, the National Hockey League, and the Province of Ontario.
For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will air live on Rogers TV and will also be streamed, allowing fans and members of the hockey community to take part from anywhere.
In keeping with Mr. Branch’s wishes, a private family service will be held. Saturday’s public ceremony provides an opportunity for friends, colleagues, and fans to come together in remembrance and celebrate a life defined by leadership, fairness, and devotion to the game.
In lieu of flowers, donations in David Branch’s memory may be made to charities close to his heart, including Special Olympics Ontario, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and the Canadian Cancer Society.
