OJLL Mourns Passing of Former Commissioner Dean McLeod
Photo: Colleen Grimes October 3, 2023 — It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a true lacrosse legend, former Commissioner Dean McLeod. Dean passed away this morning, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the history of the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League (OJLL) and the sport he dedicated his life to.
Born in Brampton, Ontario, in 1945, Dean McLeod took immense pride in his hometown of Brampton, forever identifying himself as a proud Brampton Excelsior. He wore many hats in the lacrosse community, but it was in 1982 that he took on a role that would forever define his legacy - Commissioner of the Ontario Junior ‘A’ Lacrosse League.
Dean McLeod served as Commissioner for an astounding 37 years, becoming an indomitable force in the lacrosse community. His unwavering dedication to the league and the sport as a whole was unparalleled. Among his major contributions to the Ontario Junior ‘A’ Lacrosse League was the introduction of the league’s entry draft and the establishment of the OJLL as the premier league for young lacrosse players in Canada. Under his guidance, the eventual Ontario provincial championship team captured an astounding 28 out of 37 Minto Cup Canadian national championship titles during his tenure.
Dean often reflected on his journey as the Commissioner of the OJLL, cherishing the memories of the countless personalities he worked with across Ontario and Canada.
In 2021, Dean McLeod was honored by Lacrosse Canada with the prestigious Lester B. Pearson Award, a testament to his outstanding contributions and distinguished leadership in lacrosse. The Lester B. Pearson Award is presented annually to a member of the Canadian lacrosse community in recognition of their unselfish dedication and outstanding contributions of sportsmanship and distinguished leadership to the game of lacrosse and to the physical and mental development of young Canadians.
Dean McLeod's legacy in lacrosse spans over 50 years, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and countless lives he touched. His passion for lacrosse was infectious, and his knowledge was a guiding light for many in the lacrosse community.
Even in his retirement as Commissioner in 2018, Dean remained an integral part of the OJLL, continuing to serve as an Advisor and League Historian, offering invaluable insights to Commissioner Mark Grimes and Deputy Commissioner Bob Clevely during the transition into their roles. Dean was not just a respected colleague; he was an admired friend whose wisdom and kindness will be sorely missed. His passion, dedication, and love for the league were unwavering until the very end.
“Today, we bid farewell to a true lacrosse legend, Dean McLeod, whose passion and leadership helped shape the OJLL into what it is today,” said Commissioner Mark Grimes. “We are grateful for his remarkable contributions. He will be deeply missed by the league he loved and all those fortunate enough to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Mary and their family during this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Commissioner, your legacy lives on.”
