Baseball Oshawa is saddened to share news of the passing of one of our own, Bernie McGuire. Bernie had a tremendous impact on baseball in Oshawa, first as a star player, then as a coach and executive member, and then as an umpire.

As a player, McGuire won several awards, including the Leaside League Batting Champion and MVP, and in 1970, was scouted by the Milwaukee Brewers. McGuire's impact on Oshawa Baseball in the 1970s was so great that he was eventually named to the 1970-79 All Decade Team as both a third baseman and a coach.

McGuire then became an umpire, quickly becoming regarded as one of the best umpires in Ontario. He was named the OBA Senior Umpire of the Year four times throughout his officiating career. In 1991, Bernie was the only Canadian selected to work the Pan-Am Games in Cuba. Some notable names from that tournament include Jason Giambi, Jeffrey Hammonds, Todd Greene and Lourdes Gourriel (the father of former Blue Jay Lourdes Gurriel Jr and Yuli Gurriel). In 1992, McGuire worked the Blue Jays Old Timers game at the then SkyDome.

Always someone to share his knowledge and experience, Bernie always made himself available to talk to young players and umpires and answer countless questions. Bernie's impact on youth baseball goes beyond the borders of Oshawa, as many of those he impacted now follow his example in Associations throughout the province.

In 2002, Bernie's number 35 was retired, placing him in his rightful place among the all-time greats in Oshawa Baseball.

Baseball Oshawa extends sincere condolences to Bernie's wife Karen, son Jeff (Renee), daughter Adele (Robert), and all of Bernie's grandchildren.

Forever #35

Daryl Macklem
President, OLMBA