Punch McLean: key obituary facts
Is Punch McLean dead? Yes. Punch McLean died on May 8, 2026, at age 93.
Cause of death: Punch McLean's cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.
What was Punch McLean known for?
He was known as Canadian ice hockey coach.
More about Punch McLean
Born: 5 November 1932.
Place of birth: Estevan.
Gender: male.
Nationality: Canada.
Known for: New Westminster Bruins.
Punch McLean, the Canadian ice hockey coach best known for leading the New Westminster Bruins, died on May 8, 2026.
Born Ernest John Vincent McLean on November 3, 1932, in Estevan, Saskatchewan, he coached the Bruins to four consecutive President’s Cup titles and back-to-back Memorial Cup championships in 1977 and 1978. After 16 seasons in the Western Hockey League, he ranked second all time among WHL coaches with 1,067 games coached.
Ernest John Vincent “Punch” McLean (November 3, 1932 – May 8, 2026) was a Canadian ice hockey coach. He led the New Westminster Bruins to four consecutive President’s Cup titles, and won consecutive 1977 and 1978 Memorial Cup championships. After his 16 seasons in the Western Hockey League (WHL), McLean placed second all-time among WHL coaches with 1,067 games coached.