George Ashley, a five-year NHL linesman and three-time inductee into the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame, has died at the age of 83.
The Guelph native passed away Monday, according to his obituary.
Ashley’s fingerprints can be found on a number of sports throughout his storied career.
After working over 200 minor league hockey games as a member of the Guelph Hockey Referees Association, he would turn pro and don the stripes in the National Hockey League.
He was an NHL linesman from 1966 until his retirement in 1971. He worked 245 regular season games and 19 playoff games.
After retirement, he would also be called upon for amateur level games, including being one of the officials in the 1972 Memorial Cup final.
His profile on the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame website notes he would also referee senior recreational hockey and umpire fastball and baseball leagues long after retirement.
His work as an official landed him in the local sports Hall of Fame in 2007.
It was the first of two inductions in 2007. That year, the 1970 Guelph CJOYs baseball team also went into the hall, honouring its Intercounty Baseball League championship.
Ashley was the field manager on that team.
He would also take on the role of manager for the first Guelph Ingrams baseball team, who played in the Inter-City Fastball League.
His obituary notes Ashley spent many years as an employee of Canada Post.
“Besides being an avid sports fan, George also loved to travel,” his obituary states.
“He especially loved trips to Greece and spending winters in their home away from home in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.”
Called a “devoted family man,” Ashley is survived by his wife of 53 years, Susan, his three sons Todd, Shawn and Scott, as well as six grandchildren.
No visitation will take place, at his request. A private family celebration will be held at a later date.
