A familiar voice has fallen silent in Ottawa. Lowell Green, a radio personality who captivated listeners for decades, has died at the age of 89, his family announced.
Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1936 to Canadian parents, Green’s early life unfolded in Arthur, Ontario. He pursued studies at Macdonald Agricultural College of McGill University, but his true calling lay elsewhere – in the power of radio.
Green’s broadcasting journey began in Brantford, quickly expanding to stations in Montreal and Sudbury. In 1960, he found a lasting home at 580 CFRA, where “The Lowell Green Show” became a cornerstone of Ottawa’s airwaves.
Though he officially retired in 2016, Green’s dedication to his audience remained unwavering. He continued to contribute to CFRA for three more years, and even launched an online version of his show in 2021, broadcasting until November 2022. His legacy is cemented with two preserved broadcasts held at Library and Archives Canada.
But Green was more than just a broadcaster; he was a passionate advocate for his community. He wasn’t content to simply comment on issues – he actively sought to improve the city he loved.
In 1965, he spearheaded a campaign to protect the Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill, recognizing its symbolic importance. A year later, he ignited public concern about the polluted Rideau River, prompting listeners to send samples of the contaminated water to Queen’s Park – a bold move that ultimately led to the creation of the Rideau River Conservation Authority.
Green’s commitment to public safety was also deeply felt. Following a tragic shooting at St. Pius X High School in 1975, he became a vocal advocate for stricter gun control laws, lending his platform to a critical conversation.
His entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond the airwaves. In 1983, Green founded the Ottawa Sunday Herald, a newspaper that would later evolve into the Ottawa Sun, further expanding his influence on the city’s media landscape.
The family described Green as a champion of “common sense” and an “island of sanity,” qualities that resonated with generations of listeners. He passed away suddenly on February 14th, leaving behind a void in the hearts of many. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
