Real estate developer, golf course owner Iggy Kaneff passes away at 93

It is with sadness and respect that Golf Canada extends sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mr. Ignat “Iggy” Kaneff of Mississauga, Ont. who passed away on July 12, 2020 at the age of 93.

Among his countless honours, accolades and professional designations, the real estate magnate was a deserving recipient of the Order of Ontario, a member of the Order of Canada and a respected community leader who was a driving force behind the growth of Peel Region and the development of Mississauga as a world-class city for business, culture and recreation. He helped build schools, hospitals and community centres and established the Ignat Kaneff Charitable Foundation in 1986 to support education, health, the arts, and social services of local communities.

“Iggy Kaneff and the Kaneff family have been passionate builders, operators and supporters of the game of golf,” said Golf Canada CEO Laurence Applebaum. “As a young professional in the golf industry in the early 90’s, I had the great fortune of getting to know and playing golf with Iggy at his signature golf courses during a very exciting time of growth for the game he loved.  He was kind, entertaining and had an aura of energy that surrounded everything he was involved with.

The Kaneff Golf collection of signature courses have contributed greatly to the golf experience across southern Ontario and those facilities have hosted countless charity tournaments and fundraisers that have supported so many important and worthwhile causes. What is most inspiring about Iggy’s legacy is that he was a philanthropic champion celebrated for his generosity and tireless efforts in giving back to his community. He will be sorely missed.”