June 21, 1925 - June 4, 2017
Darling Charles died in Sechelt Hospital of complications following a stroke. Predeceased by his wife Ann. Survived by their four children, Ellen (Alex Hartford), Paige Robertson (Jamie Robertson), Brian (Janet), and Graham (Josie), ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, sisters Margaret O'Connell and Nancy Hanna, brother John, dear friend Billie Meadows, and a large extended family.
Growing up in Kerrisdale, Charles proudly attended Magee High School, then went on to graduate as a Mechanical Engineer from UBC. He joined the Air Force and was in Halifax waiting to go overseas when WWII ended.
Charles married Ann Symonds in 1948. They raised their family in Kerrisdale, Charles working at the family business with his father and brother. There family trips to Disneyland and the Rockies and summers at the camp at Lindell Beach. Charles and Ann enjoyed winter holidays on Maui and travels in Europe. They found their dream property, "Moot Point", near Gibsons, where they eventually retired.
Charles enjoyed business, loved his cars, Formula One racing, and golf. He was a long-time member of Point Grey Golf Club - and to the end the game offered bedevilment. He took a keen interest in his children and their families, inspiring all with his kindness, intelligence, patience and generosity. He was a good friend, an inveterate tease, a gracious host and a real gentleman. We miss him already.
Charles liked to say, "In life you learn to take the good with the bad, and then you learn to take the bad with a bit of Scotch".
There will be a service in his memory at St. Mary's Kerrisdale Church, 2490 W 37th Avenue, Vancouver, on Wednesday, June 21 at 11 am, followed by a reception at Point Grey Golf Club, 3350 SW Marine Drive.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Hourigan and the 3rd floor staff at Sechelt Hospital for their care of Charles during the last two months of his life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Sechelt Hospital Foundation.