Former Ottawa 67's Assistant Coach Vince Malette Passes Away After Alzheimer's Battle
Vince Malette, a beloved figure in the hockey community and former assistant coach for the Ottawa 67's, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning at the age of 64. Surrounded by his family, Malette's death marks the end of an 11-year struggle with early onset Alzheimer's disease, a diagnosis he received over a decade ago.
A Legacy On and Off the Ice
Malette's impact on hockey was profound, particularly during his nine seasons as an assistant coach with the Ottawa 67's under head coach Brian Kilrea. He played a pivotal role in the team's 1999 Memorial Cup championship and the 2001 Ontario Hockey League championship. Those who knew him remember his quiet demeanor, quick wit, and ability to fill a room with laughter through his funny stories.
His family, including his wife Joana and daughters Alyssa and Amanda, stood by him throughout his illness. In a heartfelt message on social media, they expressed their grief, stating, "Loving you was the greatest gift of my life. Alzheimer's took so much, but it cannot take your love. You are free now and finally at peace."
Coaching Career and Memorable Moments
Before joining the 67's, Malette built a successful coaching career with the Ottawa Jr. Senators in the Central Junior Hockey League, becoming one of the league's winningest coaches. He later served as head coach of the OHL's Peterborough Petes. His coaching philosophy emphasized treating people with kindness and respect, qualities that endeared him to players and colleagues alike.
One of the most iconic moments of his career came during the 1999 Memorial Cup, when Malette leaped off the bench after Matt Zultek scored an overtime winner against the Calgary Hitmen. This victory at the Civic Centre remains a cherished memory for fans and the hockey community.
Facing Adversity with Humor and Grace
Malette's resilience was tested not only by his health battle but also by the unpredictable nature of coaching. In one instance, he received a letter in the mail informing him he had been fired from a CJHL position, a departure from the typical face-to-face notification. When asked about it, he joked, "I hope the postman didn't ring twice," showcasing his ability to laugh at himself even in difficult situations.
He understood the transient nature of coaching, often saying that coaches are "hired to be fired," but he believed that treating people well would always lead to new opportunities. This positive outlook defined his approach to both his career and personal challenges.
A Lasting Impact
Malette's legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements. He is remembered as a compassionate individual who brought joy to those around him. His family, friends, and the hockey world will continue to honor his memory, celebrating the man who faced Alzheimer's with grit and love until the very end.
As the Ottawa 67's noted in a news release, Malette's contributions to the team's success were invaluable. His story serves as a reminder of the human side of sports, where perseverance and kindness leave an indelible mark on and off the ice.
