Cambridge, ON – the OHA mourns the passing of former long-time OHL and CHL Commissioner David Branch, who died Sunday at the age of 77.
A native of Bathurst, New Brunswick and long-time resident of Whitby, Ontario, Mr. Branch’s remarkable 45-year tenure as OHL Commissioner stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the development of young hockey players and the sport itself. From 1979 until his retirement in the summer of 2024, he guided the OHL through an era of unprecedented growth and progress, establishing standards that elevated junior hockey across the country.
His influence extended far beyond Ontario’s borders. As President of the Canadian Hockey League from 1996 to 2019, Mr. Branch helped shape the landscape of major junior hockey in Canada, working tirelessly to enhance player development, educational opportunities, and the overall junior hockey experience. Under his stewardship, the CHL strengthened its position as the world’s premier development league for young hockey talent.
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