Steve Barban Death, Obituary – The hockey community is reeling from the tragic loss of Steve Barban, an extraordinary individual whose passion, generosity, and commitment left an indelible mark on Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO) and beyond. With profound sadness, we say goodbye to a man whose legacy will continue to inspire generations within and outside of the rink.
Steve Barban was not only the owner of the Navan Grads but also the Chairman of the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL), where he played an instrumental role in shaping the future of hockey in the region. Over the course of nearly two decades, Steve’s devotion to the game and to the young athletes in his community stood as a testament to his unwavering dedication and generous spirit. Whether behind the scenes or on the sidelines, Steve gave freely of his time, energy, and resources to support the Grads and the CCHL, always driven by his love for the game and the people in it.
For those fortunate enough to have known him, Steve embodied the qualities of a true leader and a compassionate human being. He was a fiercely competitive yet humble man, known for his kindness and readiness to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. Many within the hockey community recall his gentle humor, his humility, and his commitment to fostering not just great athletes but well-rounded individuals. He inspired countless young players to pursue their dreams, reinforcing in them the values of hard work, dedication, and resilience.
Steve’s commitment to the Navan Grads went beyond the role of an owner; he was the heart and soul of the team. Just last season, his unwavering dedication paid off as the Grads celebrated their first CCHL Championship—a dream come true for Steve. The joy he felt watching his team lift that trophy reflected the countless hours he had poured into building a program defined by integrity and sportsmanship. His love for his team was evident in every interaction, in every game, and in the way he connected with each player, coach, and fan.
The news of Steve’s passing has left a significant void in the hearts of the Navan Grads hockey community, HEO, and all who knew him. His impact extended far beyond the rink, touching the lives of everyone he met. As the community mourns this great loss, we extend our deepest condolences to Steve’s family, especially to his son Tyler, his friends, and the entire Navan Grads family. The hockey world is deeply grateful for all that Steve accomplished and the legacy he leaves behind.
As the CCHL and HEO communities come together to honor his memory, there is comfort in knowing that Steve’s spirit will live on through the lives he touched and the future he helped build. Thank you, Steve, for everything you gave. Your competitive spirit, humility, and unwavering support for others will never be forgotten.
Godspeed, dear friend, until we meet again.
