There, he became nationally renowned for his ability to market and sell products bearing the name or logo of the school.

At the University of Michigan, Canham was an athlete for the Michigan Wolverines men's track and field team, earning All-American honors by winning the 1940 NCAA title in the high jump and was both the indoor and outdoor Big Ten Conference champion in both 1940 and 1941.

Canham had Tartan Turf installed in Michigan Stadium to replace its grass playing surface in 1969.

"[7] In 1982, Canham was reported to be leading a group of investors looking to purchase the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League.

Canham had preliminary meetings with the Norris family, although the franchise was eventually sold to Mike Ilitch.