In Memory of Vince Maurice Malette
Vince passed away on February 11 at the age of 64 surrounded by the most important people in his life who filled his days with warmth, laughter and lots of love.
Vince’s smile was contagious. His laugh filled a room. He had this incredible way of making you feel like you’d known him forever. He was warm, genuine, and funny — the kind of man people gravitated toward. He lived his life the same way he coached — with heart, humour, and passion.
Hockey was one of his greatest passions and he poured his heart into the game for decades.
He coached in the CJHL in the early 1990s, leading his team to a remarkable 48-win season, a CJHL Championship, and a Centennial Cup Final appearance. In 1996-97, he was named CJHL Coach of the Year — an honour that reflected not just wins, but the respect he earned.
From 1994 to 2006, Vince was an assistant coach with the Ottawa 67’s for nine seasons, helping shape the team during unforgettable years — including the 1999 Memorial Cup Championship and the 2001 OHL title. He played such a key role in mentoring his players and is why so many people fell in love with the game.
He later served as head coach of the Peterborough Petes (2006–2008), before returning to the Gloucester Rangers and Kanata Stallions. From 2010 to 2015, he coached overseas with Eisbären Berlin in Germany, helping the club win three league championships.
But for Vince, it was never just about trophies. He loved developing young players at every level. He believed in people. His influence stretched far beyond the rink, and he touched countless lives along the way.
As proud as he was of his coaching career, nothing meant more to him than his family.
He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his wife, Joana; his children, Amanda (Matt) and Alyssa (Josh); and his adored grandchildren, Carson, Brooklyn, Lyla, Bella, and Baby O’Keefe, arriving in August. He is also lovingly remembered by his father, Mel Malette; his siblings Carol (Mike), Steven (Gail), Daniel (Madeline), and Diane; and many extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by his loving mother, Doreen Malette.
Even during his journey with Alzheimer’s, Vince remained gentle, loving, and always ready to dance or share a laugh. His love is his greatest legacy.
We already miss him more than words can say.
Please join us in celebrating Vince’s beautiful life on Wednesday, February 25 at 11:30 a.m. at Divine Infant Church, 6658 Bilberry Drive, Orleans. A reception will follow at the Shenkman Arts Centre.
In lieu of flowers, donations will go toward an NCC park bench in Vince’s honour. Additional donations will support programs that helped Vince during his Alzheimer’s journey. Donations can be sent to vmale7098@rogers.com
