OHL Mourns the Loss of Mr. John Gardner

The Ontario Hockey League family is mourning the loss of friend and prominent minor hockey leader Mr. John Gardner who passed away following a battle with cancer on Tuesday at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto at the age of 80.

Gardner was elected to the GTHL Board of Governors in 1970 and became president of the world’s largest minor hockey league in 1975, a volunteer position he’d hold for 40 years before stepping down in 2015.

A one-time amateur pilot, Gardner was a passionate promoter of the GTHL and minor hockey across the country. He founded league newspapers, wrote opinion pieces for Toronto dailies and created a radio program dedicated to the league.

Hockey has lost one of its iconic leaders. To the family and friends of Mr. John Gardner, Hockey Canada sends its sincere condolences. John will be dearly missed for his spirit and leadership in our game.

Signed, T. Renney pic.twitter.com/hZrBEsagul

— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) June 26, 2019

Throughout his lengthy tenure as president, Gardner facilitated the development of eventual OHL and NHL stars in Paul Coffey, Larry Murphy, Rick Tocchet, Brendan Shanahan, Eric Lindros, Rick Nash, Connor McDavid, Brent Burns, Wayne Simmonds, P.K. Subban, Tyler Seguin, John Tavares and Mitch Marner as they rose through the GTHL ranks.

Gardner’s support of countless charitable initiatives and commitment to player safety were both hallmarks of his 40-year run as GTHL president. He oversaw the development of the OHL Cup Showcase, an annual tournament featuring the top minor midget talent from across North America that began in March 2003.

“John was a leader in the development of our great game,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch. “In particular his efforts on behalf of the Greater Toronto Hockey League.

“He was the catalyst in developing the annual competition for the OHL Cup which is one of the most significant minor hockey tournaments held on an annual basis in this province.

“John will be missed.”

So proud to have called him my friend. https://t.co/M1ohiybwku

— Scott Oakman (@ScottOakman) June 27, 2019

Gardner was awarded the Hockey Canada Order of Merit in 2006 for his contributions to Canadian amateur hockey, one of many honours he received over the decades.

The GTHL has created the John R. Gardner Special Recognition Award that will be presented annually to a player in the league for inspirational courage in overcoming adversity.

No formal funeral will be held in Toronto for Gardner. As per his wishes, Gardner will be buried in New Brunswick alongside his parents.

For more on the life and legacy of Mr. John Gardner, visit the Toronto Star.