1942 – 2026
It is with profound sadness that the Day of Golf Committee and Cure Cancer Foundation acknowledge the passing of Cal Nichols. Cal was incredibly supportive of the community in many ways throughout his life, one of which was being a founding member of the Day of Golf. He worked to get it started and supported it for over 40 years. He was a dedicated member of the community, and he will be deeply missed. Cal is survived by his wife Edna, his kids, Ken and Kristine and five loving grandchildren. Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this difficult time.
On behalf of his family, it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of former Edmonton Investors Group Chairman, Cal Nichols. Our hearts are with Nichols’ family & friends. Once an Oiler, Always an Oiler. https://t.co/J00sMtqEEC
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 13, 2026
Founding the Day of Golf
Doug Cumming, John Trueman, Cal Nichols, and Glenn Anderson, Day of Golf Tournament Founders
During the 1986-1987 Oilers Hockey season, Acklands Grainger offered to donate $1,000 to the Cross Cancer Institute for every goal Glenn Anderson scored. Cal Nichols matched the donations with his company, Gasland Oil. Glenn’s incredible performance led to over 50 goals that season, resulting in an impressive $100,000 donation from both Acklands Grainger and Gasland Oil.
After this initial success, discussions began about a golf tournament to support the Cross Cancer Institute. Glenn had previously helped at a volunteer golf tournament with Doug Cummings and John Trueman. Cal loved the idea and used his Gasland connections to secure sponsors for the event, ultimately gathering 154 golfers. The inaugural tournament raised an impressive $55,000. The tournament—now named the Glenn Anderson & Oilers Alumni Day of Golf- has raised over $20 million to support cancer research, treatment, and care in Alberta.
Cal Nichols didn’t just support cancer research — he built a legacy of generosity. What began as a single act of matching a hockey season’s worth of goals grew, through his vision and his connections, into the Glenn Anderson & Oilers Alumni Day of Golf. Cal’s passing is a profound loss to this community, but the tournament he founded will carry his generosity forward for years to come.
Cal was a vital part of the Day of Golf, and our hearts go out to his wonderful wife Edna, his kids, grandchildren, and family and friends at this time. Edmonton has lost a true leader and inspiration to our community, and Cal will be sorely missed.