The 25th anniversary this week of the death of John Candy at age 43 in 1994 has caused renewed interest in the comedian. Mr. Candy grew up in East York and will be inducted into the East York Hall of Fame on Friday, June 14. “We look forward to celebrating the life and contributions of John Candy this Spring and we’re so pleased to confirm that his son and daughter, Chris and Jennifer Candy, will be making the trek north to accept his induction award,” said Justin Van Dette of the East York Hall of Fame. “East York is looking forward to honouring one of their most accomplished citizens.” Several friends and colleagues are scheduled to be in attendance including Toronto Mayor John Tory, who served as CFL Commissioner when Mr. Candy owned the Toronto Argonauts and Mike Pinball Clemons. John Candy grew up in East York, attended Holy Cross Catholic School and worked as an usher at the old Donlands Theatre while playing hockey with the Leaside Hockey Association. While being a busy Hollywood actor, he found time to love his city and his favourite sport as a co-owner of the Toronto Argonauts Football Club.
