The Greater Toronto Hockey League is deeply saddened to share the passing of Life Member Gordon McDonald on August 11.
Gord was a pillar of the hockey community in the Greater Toronto Area, whose service, leadership, and kindness impacted thousands of players, families, and fellow volunteers over decades of dedication.
A long-time volunteer, Gord joined the GTHL Board of Directors in 2011 and served with distinction as Second Vice President from 2015 until his retirement in 2024. His time with the League followed many years with the Mississauga Jets Hockey Club, where he coached and served as a Director. In June 2025, the GTHL Board of Directors proudly awarded Gord Life Membership — an honour reserved for those whose outstanding service and contributions have left a lasting impact on the League and its community.
Gord’s leadership and unwavering commitment shaped the GTHL in countless ways. He chaired the Referee Supervision Committee, served on the Team Allocation Group, in addition to playing a key role on numerous others, including Rules and Policy, Awards and Recognition, and Competition. Gord’s insight, dedication, and thousands of hours of volunteer time helped improve the experience for players, families, officials, and member organizations alike.
Beyond governance, Gord was a fixture at Ontario Hockey Federation Championships and events across the province, always proudly representing the GTHL. Whether it was through his work on committees or helping at the rink, Gord brought a sense of fairness, common sense, and good humour to everything he did.
Gord’s legacy will live on not only in the policies and programs he helped shape, but in the culture of service, integrity, and player-first values he championed.
The GTHL extends heartfelt condolences to Gord’s wife, Claudette, and the entire McDonald family during this difficult time.
Gord’s dedication embodied the very spirit of the GTHL mission — to provide a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive environment where young people can learn, grow, and thrive through sport. His influence will forever remain part of the GTHL story.
