Former PGA Tour golfer Matt McQuillan died in August 2026 at the age of 45.
McQuillan, a Canada native who competed on golf’s biggest stage during the 2011 season, died on August 5, 2026, according to an obituary published in The Kingston Whig-Standard. A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
“It is with heavy hearts we share the passing of Matthew Justin McQuillan (Matty to most). He passed away … surrounded by family,” the obituary, published in McQuillan’s hometown newspaper, read. “Matty was a respected golfer, devoted son, hilarious brother and friend. Whether on the course or in everyday life, he had a remarkable ability to bring people together, offering encouragement, laughter and genuine friendship to everyone he met.”
The eulogy continued, “His welcoming personality and unwavering kindness made him a beloved figure within Kingston’s golfing community and beyond. Friends who shared rounds with him remember his enthusiasm, positive attitude and appreciation for every moment spent on the course.”
Keep scrolling to learn more about McQuillan before his sudden death:
Matt McQuillan’s Path to the PGA Tour
McQuillan’s love of golf began in childhood, crediting his father, Mark, with first putting a club in his hands.
“His father, Mark, started teaching him how to swing the club at the young age of ten and his passion and talent grew immensely,” McQuillian’s obituary stated. “Starting as a junior on the Canadian Tour and making it to the PGA in 2011, Matt developed lifelong friendships while mentoring anyone who loved the game of golf.”
McQuillan turned pro in 2003 and spent years grinding on the Canadian Tour before earning his PGA Tour card through the 2010 PGA Tour Q-School. He competed in tournaments throughout the 2011 season, with his most notable finish coming at that year’s John Deere Classic, where he placed third — the signature result of his time on tour.
What Matt McQuillan Remembered About His Rookie PGA Season
In a ScoreGolf essay written after his 2011 debut, McQuillan opened up about how surreal it felt to have finally reached the sport’s top level.
“It’s still a little hard to believe that I’m part of the PGA Tour,” he wrote. “The three months since I earned my card at qualifying school have been overwhelming at times, but this is a great job and I’m lucky to be here. Even though the golf hasn’t gone as well as I’ve wanted, my focus is on staying patient and remaining confident.”
That patience and perspective would come to define his career — and the way he approached the game long after his time on tour ended.
Matt McQuillan Returned Home to Mentor a Generation
After stepping away from professional competition, McQuillan came back to Kingston, Ontario, where he worked as a golf instructor and became a fixture in the local golf community. Those who knew him have said his approach to teaching mirrored his approach to playing: patient, encouraging and rooted in a genuine love of the sport.
McQuillan’s obituary further underscored that mentorship was central to who he was, describing a man who “developed lifelong friendships while mentoring anyone who loved the game of golf.”
Whether working with beginners just picking up a club or seasoned players trying to sharpen their game, McQuillan was known for meeting people where they were.
Matt McQuillan’s Family Addresses His Death
McQuillan’s loved ones broke their silence on his death in an August 2026 obituary.
“He will be deeply missed by many and his spirit, love and compassion will be remembered every day,” their statement said. “Rest easy, Matty. We love you.”
This story was compiled with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists.
