Chris went on ahead on October 11, 2023, age 47. He leaves behind his partner Christina, her daughter Naomi, parents Judy and Dave, brother Mike, nephews Alex and Matt, many aunts, uncles and cousins, numerous friends, former students and colleagues and his big lifesaving service dog Callie, Black Lab extraordinaire. We are shocked and tremendously saddened by his abrupt departure due to cardiac illness.
Chris was a teacher, specializing in drama and history. Although his career was interrupted by illness, his enduring contacts with former students and colleagues attest to his success in imparting knowledge and retaining relationships. One had but to review his many postings on Facebook and other social media to gain an appreciation of his affinity for language and his ability to convey anecdotes and information with intelligence, accuracy, insight and humour.
Chris came from a family with a military background. This was reflected in his keen interest in military history, of which he had an extensive knowledge, and which he shared generously in his writings and references. This interest made his dad very proud and reluctant ever to challenge him on points of historical fact.
And so, he’s off on his next adventure. He lives on in the memories of us who loved him.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Sunday, October 22nd at Beechwood Cemetery (280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa, ON) at 1pm followed by a celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Ontario SPCA or to the Ottawa Humane Society.
Digital Guestbook
Pat Chapados
Suzanne Johnson
Chris will be very missed. I always enjoyed his wit and sarcasm. Although we didn't get to see each other often, when we did, the conversation was always great. I hope you are in a better place. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cory Hope
Over 30 years ago, Chris came over to my house with his family (our fathers were old military friends). Our older brothers decided that our family-induced hangout should be spent playing football together. During the game, Chris and I bonded over how much we didn't like playing football, and somehow that led to us hanging out again. And again. For years.
Chris was a cornerstone for a group of friends, who might never have met each other were it not for him. I have fond memories of late night talks, cerebral horror films, and road trips. I don't know that he ever said no when someone raised the battle cry of "Last call in Montreal!" I'm sure we pitched in for gas, but I probably owe him an oil change or two.
Although I have lived away for years now, we had stayed in touch, mostly through social media, with the odd phone call thrown in.
The void you're leaving can be felt all the way out here in Kamloops, Chris. I'll miss you.
Theresa Phillips
Amazing teacher. Brought humour to everything. Really valued Chris as a person. I am so sorry to his friends and family.
Roger Y.
Still in a little shock. We'd text almost daily for the last 10 years. It’s almost to the day since I met Chris. I met him at Homewood. We became close buddies right off the hop. I was an ex paratrooper in the CF and him a history teacher. He would pepper me with (always respectful and appropriate) questions about my 4 deployments. I really enjoyed my time there with Chris. He made it easier for me in therapy. He was always such a genuinely nice guy. It’s been 4 days and I still reach for my phone to send him a text. Just know this Chris…..your time on earth, you touched and helped many people including this ex soldier. Thanks so much pal.
Erin Picard
Will miss our late night chats. Godspeed friend.
Tanya (Boyer) Rodgers
I have many good memories of Chris through our high school days. He always has a wonderful smile on his face and always had us laughing.
He will be missed. Sorry you had to leave us so early Chris. Thoughts are with your family, friends and students.
Fred and Lynn Jones
We are so very sorry to hear of the passing of Chris and send our condolences to Judy, Dave and family. It should be noted ........."There are special people in our lives who never leave us, after they are gone. We do not remember days we remember moments". Keep the memories close, as we think of you.
Kevin and Donna Shanahan
We didn't know Chris for a long time, but he was always great to talk to and he was a fantastic tenant. We are certain he will be sadly missed by his family, Christina and Naomi, and certainly Callie.
Serena McKenna
Chris was one of the most intelligent people I have ever met, and his intelligence fueled a very clever and witty sense of humour. We taught Drama together and directed together. We directed "Enter Laughing", a play that meant a lot to Chris because the lead role was one he played himself when he was in high school. We also directed a great dinner theatre evening that to this day has not been repeated at Holy Cross Secondary School. I was really happy that we were back in touch in the last couple of years and that I had the opportunity to meet Christina and Naomi. Family was deeply important to Chris, and my heart goes out all the family members and friends who are processing this loss. I am profoundly saddened by Chris' passing. Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
Rest easy old friend. You were truly one of a kind. Words can’t express exactly how I’m feeling right now. You were a kind, smart, talented, and funny individual that I’m ever so lucky to have been able to call you a friend. Someone that no matter what challenges you were going through, you would somehow manage to keep your sense of humour. You were an important part of my life in those rather formative years in our late teens to early 20’s. Fond memories of the two of us going out wherever, you driving me back home where we would listen to tunes in your car, and talk whatever topic that would come to mind, which for some reason, would often take a turn into something philosophical. RIP Chris