The Mississauga Chargers of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) are mourning the profound loss of former longtime general manager and beloved figure, Tony Clarke.
A cornerstone of the organization for over two decades, Clarke passed away earlier this week, leaving behind a rich legacy of dedication, humor, mentorship, and a deep love for the game of hockey.
Clarke served as general manager of the Mississauga Chargers for more than 20 years, playing a pivotal role in shaping the identity and development of the team and its players.
His influence extended far beyond the walls of the arena; he was a trusted leader, a knowledgeable advisor, and a passionate advocate for junior hockey across Ontario.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Clarke made the decision to relocate back to his home province of Newfoundland from the Greater Toronto Area. Despite the distance, his commitment to the Chargers never wavered.
Heather Stockley, the current Owner and Governor of the Chargers, explained that even after her father, Lloyd Stockley, passed away in late 2023, Clarke remained deeply involved in the team’s operations.
“After my dad passed, Tony continued to offer his support to the Chargers as an advisor and checked in almost daily,” Heather said. “He supported trades and was a wealth of knowledge. The last time I saw him in person was at my dad’s funeral, but every chat made you feel like he was family.
In his heart, I know he wished he was still in Ontario as he mentioned a hopeful ‘return’ one day so he could dive back into hockey.” Clarke’s impact on junior hockey in Ontario did not go unnoticed by league leadership.
OJHL Commissioner Marty Savoy expressed deep condolences and spoke highly of Clarke’s role in the league: “Tony was a cornerstone within the Mississauga Chargers for so many years, and his dedication and commitment to the game at both the minor and junior level will have a long-lasting effect on the sport within Ontario.”
Clarke was more than a manager—he was a personality, a storyteller, and a friend to many. Heather fondly recalled his warm nature and sense of humor. “Tony loved to tell stories and jokes, and in his Newfie accent they were even funnier,” she said. “He was never in a bad mood.
And even when he did something wrong, he always managed to make you smile and forgive him with his bubbly personality.” Some of the fondest memories involve simple moments—like sharing meals and stories.
“I remember Tony sitting in the ‘bunkie’ at Port Credit Memorial Arena with my dad, always eating together. Burrito Boyz was a fan favorite for them – food was a favorite for them!” she laughed.
One memorable story captures Clarke’s vibrant spirit outside the rink: “I remember visiting Tony at Paul Coffey’s Kia dealership in Bolton about 10 years ago where he worked. I was buying a car so had to sign some papers, but Tony made it a party, and he ordered quite the spread of Greek food for the staff and myself. Paul Coffey also joined us to eat and chat.”
Throughout his life, Clarke was well respected not only for his hockey acumen but for the relationships he built and the positivity he radiated. His mentorship extended to his family as well. Clarke is survived by his wife, Mary, and their two children, Brent and Megan.
His son Brent followed in his father’s footsteps, both as a player and as a coach. Brent played in the OJHL for several teams and later joined the Chargers as an assistant coach during the 2016–17 season.
Since 2017, he has been involved in professional hockey coaching in the United States and is currently an assistant coach with the Norfolk Admirals of the ECHL. Tony Clarke’s passing is a tremendous loss to the Mississauga Chargers, the OJHL, and the broader hockey community.
His legacy, however, lives on—in the players he guided, the lives he touched, and the stories that continue to bring smiles to those who knew him. Rest in peace, Tony Clarke. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
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