Article By David Hawkins
Former PGA Tour golfer Matt McQuillan has tragically died at the age of 45.
The Canadian golfer died Wednesday at Kingston General Hospital in Ontario while surrounded by family, according to his obituary.
No cause of death has been announced.
The circumstances surrounding his death have been withheld from the public.
McQuillan, a native of Kingston, Ontario, spent years competing professionally before returning home to teach the sport and mentor younger golfers.
McQuillan Reached PGA Tour in 2011
McQuillan turned professional in 2003 and earned his PGA Tour card through Q-School in 2010.
He competed on the PGA Tour during the 2011 season, playing in 21 events and making seven cuts.
His best finish came at the John Deere Classic, where he tied for third.
Before turning professional, McQuillan played college golf at Oklahoma State beginning in 2000 before later transferring to the University of Georgia.
PGA Tour Pays Tribute
Following his professional career, McQuillan returned to Kingston and devoted much of his time to golf instruction.
The PGA Tour honored him following his death, noting that he continued helping develop young players in his hometown.
The Tour said McQuillan remained active in instruction, “helping introduce and develop the next generation of Canadian golfers.”
Family Remembers His Character
McQuillan’s family said his impact went far beyond professional golf.
“Whether on the course or in everyday life, he had a remarkable ability to bring people together, offering encouragement, laughter, and genuine friendship to everyone he met,” his obituary stated.
“His welcoming personality and unwavering kindness made him a beloved figure within Kingston’s golfing community and beyond.”
His family also remembered the enthusiasm and generosity he brought to the game.
“Friends who shared rounds with him remember his enthusiasm, positive attitude, and appreciation for every moment spent on the course,” they wrote.
“He celebrated the successes of others as readily as his own and was always willing to encourage fellow golfers, regardless of their skill level.”
Canadian Golf Community Mourns
Golf Canada also paid tribute to McQuillan after news of his death.
“Matt McQuillan’s golf story began in Kingston, Ont., and no matter where the game took him, Kingston remained at the heart of it,” the organization said.
“Golf Canada joins the Canadian golf community in mourning the passing of McQuillan.”
McQuillan’s professional career took him to golf’s biggest stage.
But those closest to him said his legacy would be defined just as much by the people he encouraged, taught, and befriended after returning home.
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