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Hockey Community Suffers Devastating Loss As 25-Year-Old Player & Brother Of NHLer Tragically Dies

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Arnab Mondal | Last updated Mar 25, 2026 3:31 PM ET

The OHL is mourning the loss of former player Jacob Winterton, who passed away at 25 after battling cancer. The league shared the news and said his death is a big loss for teams, players, and fans.

Winterton played two seasons in the league and built strong connections during that time. He played for the Flint Firebirds in the 2018-19 season and then for the Oshawa Generals in 2019-20. He scored 18 goals and had 19 assists in 125 regular-season games. People remember him as a reliable and hardworking player.

He came from Whitby and developed his game with the Ajax-Pickering Raiders at the U16 AAA and U18 AAA levels. Flint selected him in the 10th round of the 2017 OHL Priority Selection. His path showed steady progress through junior hockey.

Winterton Career Shaped By Dedication

After his OHL career, Winterton continued his journey in U SPORTS hockey. He played four seasons at the University of Guelph while studying in the Real Estate program. He stayed connected to the game and also focused on building his future.

The #OHL is saddened to learn of the passing of Jacob Winterton following a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 25.

A member of the @FlintFirebirds and @Oshawa_Generals, the league extends its thoughts and condolences to the Winterton family, as well as Jacob’s friends… pic.twitter.com/H30bz22DUF
— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) March 25, 2026

His impact was also felt in his family. His younger brother, Ryan Winterton, followed a similar path through the OHL. Ryan played for the Hamilton Bulldogs and London Knights. He now plays in the NHL with the Seattle Kraken. The two brothers shared a strong bond through hockey.

The league offered its condolences in a statement. “The OHL sends thoughts and condolences to the Winterton family, as well as Jacob’s friends during this difficult time.”

Following the news, the Kraken announced that Ryan Winterton will take a temporary leave to be with his family. The team asked for privacy and did not share more details.

An update on #SeaKraken forward Ryan Winterton. pic.twitter.com/rrAXr0dScv
— Seattle Kraken PR (@SeattleKrakenPR) March 23, 2026

Jacob Winterton’s journey left a lasting impact. His time in the OHL, his college career, and his close family ties made him someone people will remember.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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