Hugh McLean, a longtime hockey referee who...

Hugh McLean, a longtime hockey referee who worked at all levels including the NHL, has died. He was 84.

“He loved people and being with people,” OHA president Brent Ladds said Friday. “He had charisma, the kind of guy who when he walked into a room people went out of their way to say hi to.”

McLean refereed for 29 years, including 10 in the NHL. He was referee in chief of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association for 10 years and was president of the Ontario Hockey Association from 1976 to 1978.

Soccer was another love. He officiated for more than 25 years and was one of only three Canadians with credentials to officiate a game anywhere in the world. He also coached the Hamilton Steelers pro soccer team.

McLean died Thursday night at Parkwood Manor in London, Canada. He had a history of health problems.

Said OHL commissioner Dave Branch: “Hugh has had a significant impact on the game. He had such passion for the game. At all times he worked to foster it. He assisted leagues, whether it was helping them get started or just doing what needed to be done. He convened leagues, he volunteered, he just gave of his time.”