Charles STRACHAN
Charles Robert Strachan, affectionately known as Charlie, passed away on October 13, 2023 at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital after a brave battle with Parkinson’s Disease and other complications. Those who loved him mourn his loss deeply.
Charlie was born on October 8, 1932 in Winnipeg to parents Helen and Alexander Strachan. He grew up alongside his siblings Alex (Sandy), Eddie, and sister Helen and her husband Ernie Rudolph. Tragically, Charlie also outlived his niece Beverly Van Brabant, and his in-laws Sam and Lena Gugulyan, Mary, Lilly, and Johny, as well as his daughter Cynthia.
Left behind to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of 70 years, June (Joan), along with their sons Jeffrey (Heather), Cary (Barb), and Stephen (Danielle). Charlie was also blessed with 8 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. Additionally, he leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, who will sorely miss his presence.
Charlie was an exceptional husband, father, grandfather, and uncle, renowned for his unwavering love and commitment to his family. He delighted in family gatherings and treasured the time spent with his loved ones.
Originally hailing from Winnipeg, Charlie attended King George elementary school and Lord Selkirk High School. Following graduation, he discovered his passion for the insurance industry, eventually securing a partnership at Sutcliffe Insurance group in Kenora, ON. In 1965, Charlie made the decision to move his family to Kenora and embraced the community wholeheartedly.
He quickly became involved in various activities, joining the Kinsmen Club, serving on the board of the Association for the Mentally Handicapped (now Kenora Assoc. for community living) (KACL), the Kenora Hospital Board, Insurance Institute of Canada, Hospital Foundation, and other organizations dedicated to enhancing the region. Charlie also found great joy in skiing at Mt Evergreen Ski Club, golfing at Kenora Golf Club, and participating in numerous community events.
Charlie’s memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and staff on the hospital’s third floor for their exceptional care and thoughtfulness during Charlie’s extended stay.
A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring to honor and remember Charlie and his remarkable legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Special Olympics Kenora or the Lake of the Woods Hospital Foundation. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared at http://www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Strachan family.