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
Paul Hough (former student)
Will Teatro
Chris was an amazing teacher and I am proud to call him my friend. We reconnected after my graduation when he was a director at the Lindsay Little Theatre. I have him to thank for my renewed interest in theatre and will forever be grateful for every opportunity he gave me. He will be greatly missed by many former alumni of St. Thomas Aquinas and LLT.
Danon Miller
Chris & I became great close friends when I moved into the same apartment building as him, we would have coffee dates almost everyday & the best conversations. I am deeply saddened of his departure & will remember the good times we had as neighbors. Callie girl will sure miss her human!. Sending my love and healing vibes to his GF Christina, Callie and his family & friends.
Chris, you were a big part in my life for over a year. You had the biggest heart and you were such a kind man. Save a spot for me, we will see you again ❤️
Kathleen Christie
Sending condolences to Chris’ family. Chris and I worked together in the Arts department at St. Thomas Aquinas. He was a very kind man and cared deeply about his students and his role as Drama teacher. Always a good conversation when Chris was around. He will be dearly missed. Rest easy, Chris.
Natasha Goffredo
You were one of my favorite teachers ! The glee play will always be one my favorite memories. You were one of a kind teacher who taught me so many lessons. I'm so sorry to know you have left us but may you rest easy and watch over us all. You will be missed.
Cole Carley - Former Student - STACSS
Chris was one of my favourite high school teachers, he loved what he taught and gave his all to each subject he taught. He cared a lot about the students in which he taught and was always a funny and joyful person to be around. You could often hear him cracking jokes. Chris was an inspiration for me to do something that makes you happy in life and I’m sure that he has inspired others in a very similar way. Rest easy Chris you will be missed.
Kelly Scott
My sincere condolences to Chris' family, his friends and loved ones. I worked with Chris at STA and always enjoyed our little chats before our day started (especially the crazy politics of the day). He certainly had a positive impact on many of the students who he engaged in his classroom. May your fond memories of Chris sustain you now, and in the days and years to come.
Joshua Cook
Chris was the absolute kindest and gentlest person I think I've ever known. Our conversations were always a moment of calm and insight in a chaotic world. I wish there had been more of them. RIP
Mark Raegele
Gail and I are so saddened by Chris's passing. Judy, Dave and Mike, we hope that you will find some peace in the memories of the kind and loving man that he was.
Fr. Stephen DeCarlo
I am so sorry to hear about Chris' passing. He taught me drama at Holy Cross (2003-2007) and was one of the very best teachers I have ever had. He allowed us to express ourselves creatively in the drama space and always cared for his students. Chris and I became friends a few years after high school and I had the pleasure of catching up with him while I was stationed in Lindsay and he was teaching at St. Thomas Aquinas. We had a great meet at the Boiling Over coffee shop and later on I was surprised that he was living next door to me when I was posted at Immaculate Conception in Peterborough. I saw him walking Callie every day and him and I would always run into each other. Rest in peace and may the angels watch over you, amen.
I was sorry to hear about Chris' passing. He was our drama teacher at Holy Cross from Grades 10-OAC. Kind natured man. I actually remember him agreeing to coach our lacrosse team one year when we didn't have a coach. This was out of his comfort zone, but he was willing to do it for our team/school.
My father passed away a few years ago and Chris was one of the first in line at the wake. I'll remember him for that kindness. He will be missed.