Richard "Dick" Charles

September 2, 1918 - May 7, 2019
Passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer. Predeceased by Ethel (2008) and young son Ian (aged 6), Dick is survived by son Ross (Margaret) and his three grandchildren Laura (Ian), Steven (Marlies) and Jamie (Kory). He and Mom happily embraced their daughter-in-law Margaret's extended family and enjoyed hosting large family parties in their back yard.
Dad spent his early years in Ucluelet, Quathiaski Cove, and the Christian Valley in the Interior of BC, before joining the army to serve in Belgium, Holland, and Germany during World War II. After the war, he settled in the Comox Valley ("the best decision of my life") where he met and married the love of his life, Ethel.
After a career in the logging industry and many years working at the pulp mill in Campbell River, he happily retired and he and Mom enjoyed many trips throughout BC and Alberta in their travel trailer and trusty Volvo. He enjoyed his woodworking shop and spent many hours sharing his skills and creations for family, friends, and community causes. He volunteered as a driver for the Masonic Cancer Car program which offers cancer patients transportation to Victoria and back for treatment.
Dad was a long-time member of Hiram Masonic Lodge in Courtenay and served as their Secretary for 35 years. His membership in the Lodge brought him many friendships, opportunities to travel, and strong ties to his community.
The family is grateful to Carrie Crozier for her support and kindness as Dad began needing help in his home, and for the incredible team of home care staff who assisted him during the past year. The kind and gentle care of the 3rd floor "D" team at the Comox Valley Hospital was exceptional, both for Dad and our family during his last hospitalization.
We thank Dr. Kevin Swanson for his compassionate and excellent care of Dad and the staff at Courtenay Medical Clinic who made him feel so special during his many visits in the past 3 years.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Piercy's Funeral Home, 440 England Avenue, Courtenay on 01 June 2019 at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dad's memory can be made to the BC Cancer Car programme through the Canadian Cancer Society, 102 - 1509 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, V9N 2K6 or a general donation to the Comox Valley Community Foundation, 102 - 1797 Comox Avenue, Comox, BC, V9M 3L9.