OTTAWA, ON (Sept. 8, 2026) – Skate Canada is saddened by the passing of Otto Jelinek, a former world champion figure skater, Olympian, and longtime contributor to Canadian public life. Jelinek died peacefully at the age of 86 after living with Parkinson’s disease for nearly 20 years. 

A member of the Skate Canada Hall of Fame, Jelinek leaves behind a remarkable legacy in Canadian figure skating. Born in Prague, he and his family emigrated to Canada from Czechoslovakia in 1951 when he was a young boy. Alongside his sister and skating partner, Maria, he began his Canadian skating journey with the Oakville Skating Club. 

Together, the siblings established themselves among Canada’s top pairs teams. They were two-time Canadian champions and captured the 1961 North American pairs title, World bronze medals in 1957 and 1958, and World silver in 1960. They also represented Canada at the 1960 Olympic Winter Games.  

In 1962, Otto and Maria reached the pinnacle of their amateur careers, winning the World pairs title in their native Prague. They retired from amateur competition that year and went on to enjoy a successful professional career. 

Following his skating career, Jelinek embarked on a notable career in federal politics. He worked as a Member of Parliament for nearly two decades and served as National Revenue Minister under then prime minister Brian Mulroney, as well as portfolios in sport and multiculturalism. He was later appointed Canada’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic. 

Skate Canada extends its heartfelt condolences to the Jelinek family, friends and all those who were touched by Otto’s remarkable life and legacy.