Charles "Chuck" Leonard Slemin

October 21, 1925 - December 16, 2023

In loving memory ~

1925 - 2023

A beloved and proud veteran of WW2 passed away peacefully in Comox, B.C. on December 16, 2023. Chuck was predeceased by his parents, his loving wife Mary and his three brothers Clarke, Joe and Art Slemin.

Chuck was born in St. Catherines, Ontario on October 21st, 1925. At 16 years old he met the love of his life Mary Roberts, who he quite literally "fell" for after a serendipitous collision in the Owen Sound High School stairwell. Shortly after their chance encounter, Chuck voluntarily enlisted to serve Canada as a Naval Radar Operator. He would be deployed throughout the Atlantic and European theaters of World War II. Promptly upon return, he would go on to marry his loving wife Mary of 72 years. Choosing a life of service in the Royal Canadian Military, post War Depression, he and Mary were stationed all over Canada and Germany before eventually settling in the Comox Valley in 1968.

Together Chuck and Mary shared a love for family, friends and traveling - Chuck having visited 54 countries. Those who were lucky enough to know him, knew he had a great sense of humor, always ready to share a good joke or riddle. He loved a hearty meal, a good book and was a big fan of classic western movies. Chuck was always interested in history. He was a founding member of the Courtenay Museum and proud Owner Operator of the Comox Valley Doll Repair House. In retirement he repaired many religious artifacts for Churches all over B.C. Chuck and Mary were honored to be a recipients of the Courtenay Citizen of the Century Award, while being dedicated members of Christ the King Parish and proud members of the Royal Canadian Legion.

Together Chuck and Mary raised 3 beautiful daughters; Pat (Yvan) Bourgault, Johanna (Wayne) Jones, and Charlotte (Ken) Jones. He was so proud of his 6 grandchildren; Erika, Chris, Vanessa, Kyle, Kate, and Emily, their spouses; his 11 great-grandchildren; Sophia, Tessa, Klaus, Kaia, Emma, Devin, Piper, Logan, Brody, Violet, and Theo; and his many nieces and nephews. Chuck loved his family and often said that spending quality time with family and friends brought him great joy.

Chuck's last two years were spent living at the Views. A heartfelt thank you is extended to all the care team of the Views at St. Joseph's for their compassionate care and kindness . The family would also like to thank Dr. Law and Dr. Swanson for their years of care, along with Father David. Finally, to his longtime neighbor and loyal friend Helmet Lewandowsky who so often supported and lifted his spirits - our gratitude.

Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated by Father Michael on January 5th 2024, 11am at Christ the King Roman Catholic Church. Followed by internment at the Courtenay Civic Cemetery, including a poppy service lead by Comox Legion Branch 160.

Reception to follow at the d'Esterre Senior Center Comox, B.C. at 1pm.

Donations in Chuck's memory may be made to the Comox Valley Health Care Foundation.