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Former Maple Leafs Forward Tragically Passes Away

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Aug 18, 2025 10:22 AM ET

Former Maple Leafs forward Mark Kirton has tragically passed away after his courageous battle with ALS, after also spending many seasons with the Canucks.

The Toronto Maple Leafs' former forward Mark Kirton passed away at 67 after a courageous battle with ALS, the Leafs said Sunday.

'We are saddened to learn of the passing of Mark Kirton following a battle with ALS.
Mark made his NHL debut with the blue and white and would go on to spend 8 seasons in the NHL. In 2018, he was diagnosed with ALS and in 2020 he founded ALS Action Canada with PALS (Patients with ALS), a patient-led initiative to find a cure. The Leafs Alumni Association were proud to name Mark a recent recipient of the Carl Brewer Memorial award in recognition of his work.'

- Toronto Maple Leafs

The Regina product Mark Kirton suited up with Toronto in the 1979-80 season after being selected 48th overall in 1978. Kirton played six league seasons with the Maple Leafs, Red Wings, and Canucks.

'We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Canucks alumni Mark Kirton after his courageous battle with ALS.
Mark spent the latter part of his NHL career in Vancouver, appearing in 119 games as a Canuck. Following his diagnosis, he became a tireless advocate, founding ALS Action Canada to raise awareness and push for a cure.

His strength and determination inspired so many, and he will be dearly missed. Our thoughts are with Mark's family, friends, and former teammates.'

- Vancouver Canucks

His most productive season was 1980-81 with Detroit, when he tallied 18 goals. Kirton completed his playing career with 57 goals and 107 points in 266 games.

Before turning pro, Kirton had competed for the Peterborough Petes, earning 71 points in 68 games in his final season of junior hockey and 26 more in the playoffs, leading the team to the Memorial Cup.

Diagnosed with ALS in 2018, Kirton was an active fundraiser and advocate for research and patient support. In 2020, he co-founded ALS Action Canada, a patient organization dedicated to a cure.

His efforts earned him the Maple Leafs Alumni Association's Carl Brewer Memorial Award in 2022.

Kirton retired following the 1984-85 season in Vancouver, but he retired with a legacy that is defined both by his successes on the ice and his fight off the ice. May he rest in peace.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

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