Obituary of Robert Alexander Howes

Robert Alexander Howes January 4, 1943 – February 16, 2026 Passed away at the Trillium Manor in Orillia on February 16, 2026, at the age of 83. Loving father to Chris Howes of Orillia and Beau Howes of Vancouver. Proud grandfather of Jack, Rhys, Shyloh and Emma. Dear brother of Dorothy Clayton and Gwen Prentice. Bob will be missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, former teammates and the many athletes he mentored throughout his storied career. Before his professional career, Bob was a dual-sport athlete at Queen’s University, where he played both football and basketball. Bob’s legacy is etched into the history of Canadian football. A formidable offensive lineman, he played fourteen seasons in the Canadian Football League, primarily with the Edmonton Eskimos. His tenure in Edmonton was marked by extraordinary success, as he was team captain and a vital part of five Grey Cup championship teams (1975,1977,1978,1980, 1981). His passion for the game continued long after his playing days when he returned to Queen's as an adjunct faculty member of the School of Physical Education and as a coach with the Gaels for many years, including the 1992 National Championship team. Bob finished his coaching career serving various coaching and mentorship roles with the University of Toronto and St. Francis Xavier University. There will be a celebration of life in Kingston, Ontario in June 2026 - the date and location to be finalized soon. Gifts made in Bob’s memory will honour his legacy and support future student-athletes, ensuring that the values he championed continue to guide Queen’s Football for years to come. To make a gift in memory of Bob Howes, please visit: https://givetoqueens.ca/project/view/3091. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca.