In memory of

Charles James Wakefield

July 25, 1945 -  December 26, 2021

Born July 25, 1945 in Montréal, died December 26, 2021 in Toronto. It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of this magnificent and loving man who taught us all the true meaning of love and friendship. Predeceased by his parents Robert Wakefield and Meggie Bowman, beloved husband of 53 years to Donna (née Doyle), proud father of Kimberley and Mark (Josée-Anne), loving brother to Allan (Sue) and Sally and adoring grandfather to Gavin, Shannon, William, Christophe and Maximilian. He will also be remembered by his many in-laws from the Doyle family, cousins, nieces, nephews, stepsiblings, great-nieces, and great-nephews and so many more family and friends. He was a true gentleman in every sense of the word with a kind, gentle, loving, and respectful nature inspiring us all to do better and be better. After graduating from McGill and Harvard Business School, he spent the first several decades of his career as an astute investment manager, mentoring many young people and achieving a level of professional success he rarely wanted to discuss. Among Charles’ many active community involvements he was the Chair of the board of the Daily Bread Food Bank, he was also an active political supporter and mentor of Gerard Kennedy. After he retired, he spent the next 20 years tutoring children from disadvantaged backgrounds at inner city schools. He was a passionate crusader for all that he believed in, helped build up the light he saw in so many. Love was the superpower he used to make us all shine a little brighter. His passion for embracing and connecting his family and heritage knew no bounds. He was sharp, articulate, and warm with a friendly comment ready for everyone who crossed his path stranger and friend alike. He was the eternal optimist, cheerful and eager to connect with people from all walks of life. He will be sorely missed but his impact on all he touched will never fade. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Children’s Mental Health Ontario, an excellent advocacy organization at https://cmho.org/donate/

Guestbook 

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Robert Stikeman (Friend from youth)

Entered December 30, 2021 from Toronto

My thoughts are with you, Donna and your family, for the surprising and sad moment. Charles and I grew up together many years ago and I have many fond memories of him as we grew up together.

Kimberley Wakefield (Daughter)

Entered December 30, 2021 from Toronto

There will never be another one like you, you are the truest meaning of the word gentleman. My grief in losing you is only matched by my love for you. I will forever be Daddy's girl. Thank you for showing me unconditional love. I am who I am because of you.

Ann Garland (Childhood friend)

Entered December 31, 2021 from Lebanon NH

Charles was like an older brother growing up in Senneville. He was funny, quirky, generous, loyal, kind, and had a loud chuckle. He left us way too early. My heart goes out to the whole family.

Bryan Doyle & Lucie Mauro (Cousin by marriage)

Entered December 31, 2021 from Pointe-Claire Quebec

Dear Donna, Mark and Kimberley

We would like to extend our deepest sympathies to you. We were shocked to hear of the sudden passing of Charles. We cannot imagine the pain you are going through right now. He was a very nice man and a good friend to our family. I hope you can take some comfort in that he led a rich and full life. Once again so sorry for your loss.
Bryan & Lucie

Donna and Buddy Bowden (Niece)

Entered January 4, 2022 from Penobscot, ME

Sending our love and sympathy to all the family.

Photos 

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