Dave Gillespie, the Midland Flyers head coach and president of the junior C club, passed away at the age of 56. He had just turned 56 on April 1, 2025.
On February 26, he went to the hospital with an excruciating headache but was immediately sent to Toronto for further testing as doctors found lesions on the brain.
He started radiation treatment for brain lesions after tests revealed spots on his lung. Shortly after, he began experiencing abdominal pain caused by fluid buildup in his abdomen, which required frequent draining every few days.
Moreover, his lung spots spread quicker than biopsy results to determine how to move forward.
Doctors believed that they were dealing with an aggressive cancer that attacked his organs.
His condition deteriorated daily, affecting his lungs, kidneys, liver, and brain. Each new scan and blood test reveals more complications.
Although chemo was set to begin at RVH, it was a short option to give him a bit more time.
Dave was a pillar of strength on and off the field, and his untimely passing saddened the Midland Flyers and the local sports community.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved President, General Manager, and Head Coach of the Midland Flyers Hockey Club.
Midland Flyers
Dave was more than just a leader—he was the heart and soul of this team. A former junior hockey player himself, he brought a deep passion for the game to everything he did. His dedication, tireless work, and unwavering belief in our players made a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
The entire Flyers organization extends our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be missed beyond words but never forgotten.
Dave Gillespie’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
David “Dave” Gillespie was a dedicated head coach who died at 56 after a courageous battle with illness.
He leaves a legacy of leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to his players, family, and the game he loved.
His coaching career earned him respect as a mentor who shaped countless athletes.
In his early hockey career, Dave played for several elite local teams, including the Oro 77s, before playing for the Orillia Travelways, Barrie Colts, and Collingwood Blues in the COJHL.
Moreover, he was an assistant coach for the 77s for a season before leading the Barrie Colts U18 AAA team for several years. He joined the Midland Flyers as general manager and head coach for the 2021–22 season.
Dave was more than a coach; he was known for his tough yet compassionate approach. He was a father figure to his players, instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
Beyond the field, he was a devoted father to his two sons and grandfather to two young kids. His son lived in Alberta, and the other lived in northern Ontario.
His family was his most incredible pride, and he balanced coaching demands with unwavering support for his loved ones.
Friends and colleagues remember him as a man of integrity, humor, and deep faith, always putting others before himself.
The Voodoos are very saddened to hear the passing of 56-year-old Dave Gillespie. Dave ran the Midland Flyers Jr C team where the Voodoos had two affiliate players in Ethan Boyes and Evan Hinks this season.
Powassan Voodoos
Dave is a former coach with the NOJHL Kirkland Lake Gold Miners and was always a friend of the Voodoos when he was coaching U18 AAA in Central Ontario. Our condolences go out to Dave Gillespie’s family and friends.
His influence extended far beyond wins and losses. Former players often credited him for life lessons that transcended sports, calling him a coach who changed lives.
The Gillespie family will soon announce his public memorial service. They had raised a GoFundMe fundraiser to help him financially during his treatments.
Rest In Peace, Coach Dave Gillespie
In Case You Didn’t Know
- David “Dave” Gillespie was honest and was one of the good guys in the Schomberg Cougars organization.
- He coached at the NOJHL Kirkland Lake Gold Miners and built a strong bond with the Powassan Voodoos while coaching U18 AAA in Central Ontario.
- He never smoked and was active, playing hockey regularly and coaching junior hockey.
