It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Earl Vincent Schaubel Jr., beloved husband of Shirley Marie Schaubel (Fox), cherished father to Gillian (Chris) and Douglas (Yun), and beloved grandfather to Georgia, Bridget, Zoey, Kyle and Maxwell. Earl passed away peacefully at the age of 91, in the early hours of October 9, 2026, with Shirley by his side at Bridlewood Trails Retirement Community in Kanata, Ontario. Earl was a much-loved brother to Arlene (Don), Tom (Carole), and Micky. He was predeceased by his parents, Earl Vincent Schaubel Sr. and Alice Schaubel (Brough).
Earl was born on April 17, 1935, in Chippawa, Ontario. Earl’s family eventually moved to Ottawa, where he attended high school at Lisgar Collegiate Institute in downtown Ottawa. After graduating, Earl attended Royal Roads Military College in British Columbia for his first two post-secondary years. It was in BC that he had the wonderful fortune to meet his future wife, Shirley. He then continued his studies at Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario, where he obtained a diploma in engineering. This was followed by further studies at McGill University, where Earl completed his degree in civil engineering. Earl served in the Canadian Armed Forces after graduating. His military service took him, Shirley, and later their family, to several postings. He rose through the ranks, ultimately attaining the rank of Colonel. In 1978, Earl retired from the army and began the second phase of his career in the federal public service in Ottawa, where he worked until his retirement in 1995.
Earl’s love of sports continued throughout his life. He played a lot of tennis as an adult and was an avid golfer and skier, particularly after his retirement. He also loved to play bridge with his friends. He coached minor hockey for several years when his son, Doug, was younger, once winning three league championships in succession.
Earl will be remembered for his encyclopedic knowledge of world history and eagerness to debate the issues; his palpable love of hanging out with friends and family; epic arm-wrestling matches with his son (until finally losing one in 1982); his appreciation for irony and rather dry sense of humor; his uncanny ability in golf to get a good lie and avoid penalty strokes; and, most of all, his timely, concise and heartfelt advice to his children (only when requested and always immeasurably helpful). Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of Earl’s life, on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at Hall of Colours of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave in Ottawa. from 1:00 to 3:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in memory of Earl Vincent Schaubel to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
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