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Former PGA Tour Pro Matt McQuillan Dead at 45 in Kingston
Remembering Matt McQuillan: A Canadian Golfer’s Journey
Matt McQuillan in action during the 2011 McGladrey Classic. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
Who Was Matt McQuillan?
Matt McQuillan was a professional golfer from Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He played on the PGA Tour (the biggest golf league in the world) and later became a beloved teacher of the game. Sadly, he passed away on August 5, 2026, at the age of 45, surrounded by his family.
Important Point: Matt wasn’t just a golfer—he was a mentor, a brother, a son, and a friend who loved sharing his passion for golf with everyone, especially kids.
How It All Started: A Kid with a Club
Matt’s golf story began early:
- Age 10: His dad, Mark, taught him how to swing a club.
- Teen years: He played on the Canadian Tour as a junior.
- College: He earned a scholarship to Oklahoma State University (starting in 2000) and later transferred to the University of Georgia.
His Professional Career: By the Numbers
| Stat | Details |
|---|---|
| Turned Pro | 2003 |
| PGA Tour Events Played | 32 |
| Cuts Made | 9 (making the "cut" means you play well enough to stay for the weekend rounds) |
| Best Finish | T-3 (Tied for 3rd) at the 2011 John Deere Classic |
| Career Earnings | Just under $604,000 |
| Last Pro Event | PGA Tour Canada, September 2016 |
The 2011 John Deere Classic – His Shining Moment
- Matt shot an amazing final-round 64 (that’s 8 under par—super low!).
- He finished tied for 3rd alongside Zach Johnson, a two-time major champion.
- It was the highlight of his tour career.
Matt McQuillan during the 2011 Greenbrier Classic. (Photo by Hunter Martin/Getty Images)
Life After the Tour: A Teacher and Mentor
After his playing days, Matt didn’t leave golf—he gave back:
- Became a teaching professional in Kingston.
- Traveled across Canada introducing the game to the next generation.
- Built lifelong friendships with everyone he met through golf.
Important Point: The PGA Tour noted that Matt "stayed connected in the game as a teaching professional in his hometown and introduced the game to the next generation of players across Canada."
What People Said About Him
His obituary in the Kingston Whig-Standard painted a beautiful picture:
"Matty was a respected golfer, devoted son, hilarious brother, and friend. His father, Mark, started teaching him how to swing the club at the young age of ten and his passion and talent grew immensely… There will be a celebration of life held at the ANAF at a later date to be determined and announced by family. He will be deeply missed by many and his spirit, love and compassion will be remembered every day. Rest easy, Matty. We love you."
Matt McQuillan celebrating at the 2011 RBC Canadian Open. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Summary
- Matt McQuillan was a Canadian pro golfer who played 32 PGA Tour events.
- His best finish was T-3 at the 2011 John Deere Classic (final round 64).
- He earned ~$604,000 in his career.
- After touring, he became a teaching pro in Kingston, helping kids and adults fall in love with golf.
- He died August 5, 2026, at 45, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and passion for the game.
FAQ
Who was Matt McQuillan?
A Canadian professional golfer from Kingston, Ontario, who played on the PGA Tour and later taught golf across Canada.
What was his best PGA Tour result?
He finished tied for 3rd (T-3) at the 2011 John Deere Classic, shooting a final-round 64.
How much did he earn on the PGA Tour?
Just under $604,000 in official career earnings.
What did he do after his playing career?
He became a teaching professional in his hometown and worked to grow the game for the next generation across Canada.
When did he pass away?
August 5, 2026, at age 45, surrounded by family.
Final Thought: Matt McQuillan’s story reminds us that success isn’t just about trophies—it’s about the lives you touch, the joy you spread, and the love you leave behind.
