Gary was a great team player. We played together in the 1974 Grey Cup. He was a hard hitter, smart, and as tough as they come. He played the game of football and life with the same enthusiasm. He will be missed by everyone he touched. – Rudy Florio
November 4th, 1951 – July 17th, 2025. It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news of Gary’s sudden passing at his home in Collingwood. Born in Ottawa to parents (predeceased) Shirley (Culley) and Roger Chown. He will live on in the hearts of his loving family: his wife, Linda (LePage); son, Matthew (Josephine); daughter, Hayley; brothers, David (Jennifer) and Richard (Kathleen); sister-in-law Lauri (Bruce); grandchildren, Emma, Brenna, and Hunter; daughter-in-law, Catherine; and son-in-law, Rob. He also leaves behind nieces, cousins, and countless friends. His loyal dogs, Otto, Tessa, and his beloved Gracie, brought him great joy and comfort.
Gary was raised in the Town of Mount Royal, Montreal, where it quickly became clear he was both exceptionally friendly and highly talented. Gary excelled in every sport he tried. Affectionately nicknamed “Chunky,” he was playing football two age levels above his group, holding his own with ease. On the hockey rink, he was just as formidable. A fierce competitor, a loyal teammate, and a true class act, Gary was also the nicest guy once the whistle blew. It came as no surprise that when he joined the high school band, he was handed the tuba—the only guy big enough to carry it home. Gary was a truly gifted athlete. A two-time Athlete of the Year, he was a standout defenceman on the Bishop’s Gaiters hockey team. But it was on the football field where he left his mark.
Widely regarded as one of the finest players to wear the Bishop’s Gaiters uniform, Gary was a three-time all-conference selection. In 1971, he earned the rare distinction of being named an all-star on both the offensive and defensive units. A two-time CIAU All-Canadian (’71, 72), he was selected as a territorial draft pick by the Montreal Alouettes. Gary went on to enjoy a distinguished four-year career in the CFL, both as an offensive lineman and linebacker, winning two Grey Cup Championships with the Montreal Alouettes (‘74,’77). His 40 years of giving back included recruiting future football stars, supporting Bishop’s Athletic Alumni events, being awarded Alumnus of the Year in ’96, and becoming a member of the Bishop’s Wall of Distinction.
After an accomplished athletic career, Gary brought the same passion and work ethic to his professional life. Gary was a partner in the “Twelve34” Nightclub from its inception and later “La Reprise” Nightclub in Montreal. In 1982, he settled in Toronto. His natural enthusiasm and determination helped him build his own business, CM Displays & Events, a trade show and exhibit company that flourished for over two decades. He was relentless in his goal to provide a quality product with hands-on service, personally overseeing every detail from order to delivery and setup. His integrity and commitment earned the trust of clients who came to rely on him completely. Eventually, his son Matthew joined him in the business, helping manage the ever-growing client base and continuing the legacy of excellence his father established.
Gary was larger than life in many ways—a tremendous and colourful storyteller. With a twinkle in his eye and an effortless smile, he could captivate any room as he regaled us with tales from his glory days at Bishop’s University and his time playing for the CFL Montreal Alouettes. His face lit up with those big “baby blues” in response to any news or revelations. Always present, always engaged. Gary had a gregarious, outgoing nature and an uncanny ability to connect with just about anyone. His empathetic heart and generous spirit made him a loyal and cherished friend. He had a rare gift for building relationships wherever he found himself and turned chance encounters into lifelong friendships. Gary’s sincere curiosity made every conversation with him feel like an important one. He gave his time as a Big Brother, guest speaker, coach, and mentor, both at Bishop’s and in the communities of Richmond Hill and later Collingwood. His passion for sports was only matched by his commitment to inspiring others.
Gary took immense pride in his children and grandchildren, sharing 42 years with his wife and steadfast partner, Linda. A true partner in every sense, whose strength, love, and presence he deeply valued and relied on every day.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, October 2nd, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at The Alpine Ski Club, 242 Arrowhead Road, The Blue Mountains, ON.
In lieu of flowers donations in Gary’s memory may be made to the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital or
Bishop’s University – Gary Chown Memorial Fund
His presence will be deeply missed, but his larger-than-life spirit lives on in all who were lucky enough to know him.
