Farewell to Colin Chalk - The Welsh Wordsmith with a Taste for Tim Hortons
We bid farewell to the one and only Colin ‘Chalky’ Chalk - a man who always hoped for the best in humanity, even when he constantly found himself getting let down. With a sharp wit and an irreverent tongue, Colin had a unique talent for bemoaning life's imperfections while still managing to find the humour in it all.
This vexation was perfectly encapsulated in his response to learning about his diagnosis. He vented; "I only came in with a broken leg and leaving with terminal *bleeping* cancer!"
His knack for finding humour in the darkest of situations was nothing short of remarkable. It's as if he had an unspoken mission to make us laugh, even in the face of adversity.
As a devoted husband to Suzanne, a caring father to Gareth, and a loving grandfather to Bethan, Seren, and Catrin, Colin's family brought immense joy to his life.
Chalky's journey began in Wales, where he embraced his heritage with pride. Rumours have it that he only moved to Canada in the late 1970s after hearing about the magical elixir called Tim Hortons coffee.
No day would start properly before a ‘smoke and a coffee’, and in retirement usually a good read of the newspaper and an exasperated comment about the state of the world … and if Sue wasn’t around, maybe a cheeky donut.
Colin's life was centered around a steadfast commitment to serving others. His journey began when he joined the charity 'Help the Aged,' which led him to Canada. Later, he devoted a significant portion of his career to the Ottawa Food Bank. During his tenure as a leader of volunteers at the Food Bank, fate brought him together with Suzanne. His involvement in managing Events and Public Relations for the charity earned him widespread recognition in the media, with frequent appearances on TV and radio appeals.
Many of Colin's Christmases revolved around the Heart & Crown, where he would selflessly distribute complimentary meals to those in need while taking breaks from his performances on the stage to entertain them. This was a continuation of a passion that started in Wales before Gareth was born, where he could be found spending his nights regularly volunteering for the ‘soup run’ for the homeless.
Although working for charities was a theme throughout his life, he embodied the mantra that ‘charity begins at home’. Colin tirelessly spent his ‘retirement’ entertaining and nurturing the toddlers running riot in his home where Sue ran her childcare business.
In between his employment for charities, he set up ‘Home Minders’, looking after house and pets for those at work or on holiday. This role allowed him to combine his rich love for animals with the flexibility to spend his evenings performing his sets and hosting ‘open mic nights’.
Many knew Colin via his musical talent, which is where much of his reputation was built. During his career playing in the Irish bars throughout Ottawa, he effortlessly wielded the guitar, creating melodies that could move mountains and hearts alike. He played the harmonica like an extension of his soul, breathing life into songs, adding a touch of enchantment to his performances. His voice, was a rare gem - rich, soothing, and undeniably beautiful. When he sang, listeners were left mesmerized, as if time itself had paused to listen to the beauty of his music. In the world of music, he left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of experiencing his artistry.
A true wordsmith at heart, Colin's linguistic prowess was renowned during the Christmas season. Back in the day, his holiday poems for friends were an ingenious blend of mirth and mischief, often giving dishonourable mentions to those who deserved a gentle ribbing. No one was safe from his playful jabs, but everyone adored the humour that danced on the edge of propriety.
Today, as we remember Colin with laughter and fondness, let us cherish the memories of this wonderful Welshman who left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. In his honour, let us raise a cup of Tim Hortons coffee (as he would have insisted) and toast to a life well-lived, filled with compassion, humour, and love.
Chalky, may your journey beyond be filled with laughter, music, and an endless supply of ‘double doubles’. Rest in peace.
Digital Guestbook
Danny Byrne
Pamela Spirito (nee Nicholls)
My condolences to the family and friends of Colin. Colin has touched so many lives and was always an inspiration. My favourite memories are the many times I was honoured to watch him perform. He was talented and shined like a diamond. Though he should have recorded his immigration song but I do have it on video. He was always kind and played my two favourite songs when I was in attendance, which I had recorded a couple of St Patrick Days ago. A memory that I will hold on to. Colin was kind to my three boys, playing baseball outside the house at family gatherings is our favourite memory. He had a big heart and was so kind to not only myself, my family, my friends but to others he encountered. I remember the first date that he went on with my sister Sue and how tickled she was after. He held her hand through many a drama. He was her rock. He was also a large part of the Nicholls family over the years. Sending all my love to a wonderful man, my brother-in-law, who will be missed. Much Love Always, Pamela, Luca, Merrick and Nick.
Robert Spirito
My sincerest and deepest sympathies and condolences to Sue all those that Colin’s life touched. To me Colin was first a friend, bother-in-law and finally esteemed member of my extended family. I found him to be a nice, kind hearted and gentle soul but never held back from speaking his mind even if under his breath known to those who paid enough attention. Uncle Chalk, Mr. Chalk, Chalky you will undoubtedly be sorely missed by all the lives you touched and to those who didn’t have the opportunity you certainly missed out on an incredible life changing event. My fondest memories with you include watching you become bigger than life as you performed particularly when you sang « the immigration blues », spending a week with you, Sue, Edith and all our children on vacation at the cottage together, spending the day golfing with you and my son Nic which I know you both deeply enjoyed and finally talking with and especially sitting next to you listening to your secret commentary. I know Nic and I both would have loved to join you for another round of golf. May you rest in piece as you rightly deserve with all our love from Edith, Justin, Robert, Nic and especially Bella.
Edna paesons
Thinking of you, especially at this sad time of great loss. May you have peace in knowing that Colin is at peace.
Kalabric family
What a lovely tribute to a wonderful man. He was such a kind, caring and gentle soul. We will remember him fondly. His wonderful laugh, talent and generous spirit. I remember many birthday parties at the park where he played and sang for the kids. It was always the highlight. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy. Our deepest sympathies to Sue and the family.
Catherine Fontaine
Rest in Peace Colin. So sad to hear about your passing. Colin use to run a consignment shop in beechwood. The purple crayon. I worked next door back then. Some days, when it was slow at the office, I would go out for a smoke and meet up with Colin. We would have conversations. His store was a blessing to me in those days with a newborn. I shopped there quite a bit. I will keep fond memories of him. I know he loved his music. And definitely coffee as well. His spirit will live on. My son and him also shared the same birthday. I will always remember that. My sincere sympathies to all of his family.
I am so thankful for my last couple of visits with Colin just days before his passing. Just 5 days before he passed we chatted & reminisced for for the better part of 3 hours. I will cherish that time along with all the great times I spent with Colin over our 30 year friendship. Colin was a pure gem, gentle, hilarious & charisma beyond compare! Colin made sure that although we will remember him with a tear in our eye, we will also have a smile on our face. My deepest sympathies to Sue & her family as well to Gareth & his family. God speed old friend, God speed…we will all miss you terribly!