The death of Ed Chlebek rekindles memories of his time with Eastern Michigan and beyond.
The football community is mourning the death of Ed Chlebek, a respected former player and coach, who passed away at the age of 85.
Chlebek, known for his long and varied career in both American and Canadian football, died recently at his home in Naples, Florida, where he had lived for the past 25 years.
Chlebek’s life in football began as a standout quarterback at Western Michigan University from 1959 to 1961.
During his time with the Broncos, he passed for over 2,000 yards and was later honored with induction into the Western Michigan University Athletic Hall of Fame.
In 1963, Chlebek briefly played professionally with the New York Jets of the American Football League.
Following his playing days, Chlebek transitioned into coaching, a move that would define the next chapters of his life.
He began his coaching career as an assistant with the Detroit Wheels and later joined the legendary Notre Dame program under head coach Dan Devine.
While at Notre Dame, Chlebek worked closely with future NFL Hall of Famer Joe Montana, helping shape one of football’s most celebrated quarterbacks.
Chlebek’s head coaching career took him to Eastern Michigan University from 1976 to 1977, where he earned recognition as the Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year in 1977.
Known as a “players’ coach,” he was admired for his leadership and mentorship.
His tenure at Eastern Michigan left a lasting impact on the program and those he coached.
He later served as head coach at Boston College (1978–1980) and Kent State (1981–1982), compiling a career college record of 26–51.
After his collegiate coaching days, Chlebek continued his football journey as the offensive coordinator for the Toronto Argonauts in 1983.
That season, the Argonauts captured the Grey Cup, a crowning achievement in Canadian football. He later joined the Oklahoma Outlaws in the same role.
Former colleagues and players remember Chlebek not just for his contributions on the field, but for the warmth and mentorship he offered off it.
A recent visit in February by former assistant coach Tom Martilotti underscored the deep bonds Chlebek maintained with those he worked alongside throughout his career.
Current Eastern Michigan head coach Chris Creighton had also reached out with an invitation for Chlebek to return to Ypsilanti this fall for a game — a gesture that, according to his wife Sue, brought a smile to his face in his final days.
Ed Chlebek’s death marks the end of a life defined by resilience, leadership, and an unwavering passion for the game of football.
His legacy endures through the players he mentored, the programs he helped shape, and the countless lives he touched along the way.
