McGeough had worked 1,083 regular-season games from 1987-2008.
"The National Hockey League lost a true friend of the game last night with the passing of Mick McGeough," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said. "As one of the League's top referees for 21 years from 1987-88 until his retirement following the 2007-08 season, Mick's passion for the game shone through on a nightly basis. He earned and maintained respect from players, coaches, general managers and his peers throughout his career with a unique style that combined humility and humor with decisiveness and fairness."
McGeough also officiated 63 Stanley Cup Playoff games and was one of the last referees to not wear a helmet. McGeough also served as an NHL officiating supervisor.
He is survived by his wife, Angie, and five children; Jared, Luke, Kara, Karlie and Isaac.
"Mick was the consummate communicator," NHL senior vice president and director of officiating Stephen Walkom said. "Whether it was as an NHL referee for two decades or, more recently, in his position as Officiating Manager, Mick had the tremendous ability to tell stories - sharing his knowledge of the rules and insights into the game with everyone he met. He was also a great teacher who took pride in inspiring and developing officials through his love for the game. On behalf of the entire NHL officiating team, we will miss Mick's friendship and our thoughts are with Angie and his entire family."
