Former Ontario Hockey League commissioner and Canadian Hockey League president, David Branch, passed away at the age of 77. The OHL and CHL confirmed his death on Monday, noting that he had passed away the day before with no disclosed cause. Branch held the position of OHL commissioner from 1979 until his retirement in 2024 and served as CHL president from 1996 to 2019.
OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford expressed sorrow over Branch’s passing, highlighting his significant contributions to the sport of hockey that will have a lasting impact for years to come. Branch was instrumental in overseeing the growth and development of the Ontario Hockey League, always prioritizing the well-being and experience of the players.
In recognition of his dedication, the CHL renamed the player of the year award after him in the 2019-20 season, along with introducing the leader of the year award for the top OHL executive. Branch, originally from Bathurst, N.B., and a longtime resident of Whitby, Ont., was also involved in the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, received the Order of Hockey in Canada in 2016, and was honored with induction into the Whitby Sports Hall of Fame as a builder in 2017.
CHL president Dan MacKenzie praised Branch for his unwavering commitment to enhancing the player experience both on and off the ice, emphasizing that his legacy lies in the safer, faster, and more skilled game that exists today due to his leadership. MacKenzie acknowledged Branch’s ability to unite people and drive significant advancements in the sport, affirming that his impact should secure him a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame in the future.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman lauded Branch as a “trusted colleague,” highlighting their collaborative efforts to expand hockey at all levels. Bettman commended Branch for his lifelong dedication to junior hockey in Canada, focusing on player development, education, and overall well-being. The OHL recognized Branch for steering the league through a period of unprecedented growth and progress, setting new standards that elevated junior hockey nationwide.
Branch’s introduction of the OHL Scholarship Program was a pivotal initiative to ensure players had access to post-secondary education after their time in the league. Hockey Canada’s Dean McIntosh acknowledged Branch as a pioneer in the sport, reflecting on his significant impact on the Canadian Hockey League from its early stages to its current stature. McIntosh praised Branch for his community involvement and described him as not only a remarkable ambassador for hockey but also an exceptional individual.