The Ontario Hockey League is saddened by the loss of Jim Debenham, a member of the OHL scouting community for over 20 years, who passed away on Wednesday, November 29th.
Raised in Peterborough but having lived in Chatham-Kent since the 1980s, Debenham entered the league as a regional scout for OHL Central Scouting from 1993 to 2002. He joined the Plymouth Whalers as their head scout in 2002, a post he’d hold until 2009, helping the Whalers build their 2007 OHL Championship team and win three West Division titles during his tenure. Debenham also served as head scout of the Sarnia Sting from 2009-12 before finishing his scouting career back in Plymouth from 2012-14.
Prior to his time in the OHL, Debenham was involved with the Chatham Maroons Junior B program, previously serving as their head coach while also serving in roles with the Walpole Island, and later Tilbury Junior C programs.
Debenham retired from a 35-year career in Public Health in 2010. He was a Legion and Kinsmen member, as well as a boy scout and Rover. He had remained active with his Rover friends for over 50 years.
Jim is survived by Carol, his wife of 51 years, and was the loving father of E.J. (Amanda) and Corrie (Marija). He was a proud grandfather of four and great-grandfather of two.
For more on the life and career of Jim Debenham, visit alexanderandhoulefuneralhome.ca.
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