Bob Howes

Bob Howes, a revered figure in Canadian football, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 83. Born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Howes left an indelible mark on the sport, first as a dominant offensive lineman in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and later as a respected coach at the university level. His career spanned decades, characterized by dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the game.

Howes began his distinguished playing career after excelling in both football and basketball at Queen's University. He was drafted by the Calgary Stampeders in 1966 before beginning his CFL journey with the BC Lions in 1968. After four seasons with the Lions, he joined the Edmonton Eskimos in 1972, where he became a cornerstone of one of the league's most formidable offensive lines. His tenure with the Eskimos was marked by exceptional team success.

During his decade with the Edmonton Eskimos, Howes was instrumental in the team's historic run of five Grey Cup championships between 1975 and 1981. A CFL West All-Star in 1973, he played in 203 regular-season games over his 14-year professional career, a testament to his durability and skill. His contributions as an offensive lineman, though often unsung, were critical to the success of his championship teams.

Following his retirement as a player in 1981, Howes transitioned seamlessly into coaching, returning to his alma mater, Queen's University. He served in various capacities, including offensive coordinator during the Golden Gaels' 1992 Vanier Cup championship season. He later became head coach in 1995, leading the team to an OQIFC Dunsmore Cup championship and earning Coach of the Year honors twice. His coaching journey also included roles with the University of Toronto Varsity Blues and the St. Francis Xavier X-Men, where he received the Phil Hughes Award in 2015 for his volunteer coaching efforts. Bob Howes' legacy will be remembered through the countless players he influenced and the championships he helped secure.