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CHUCK REYNOLDS Obituary pic

CHUCK REYNOLDS

Date of Passing: Aug 08, 2015

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CHUCK (CHARLES) REYNOLDS Happily running chores for a dear friend, Chuck (Charles) Reynolds passed away suddenly on Saturday, August 8, 2015. Chuck lived a full, vibrant, and extremely loud life in the community he loved with his wife Susan; his daughter Becky Sue and son-in-law Jason, and his son, Sean and daughter-in-law Laura. His capacity for love only grew with the arrival of his grandsons Jack and Finn, and his granddaughters Piper, Charlie and Chase. Included on the long list of loved ones celebrating his life are his sisters Pat Wallace (Jack), and Tammi (Mike) and brother Mickey (Hillary) and other brother Little Mick. Always a thorn in his side were his sisters-in-law Shelley Major (John) and Genevieve Poyser (Marv) and their lovely families. Ever raiding his pantry were his nephews and nieces Jay-Anna, Stephen, Nigel and their ever-growing families. Chuck's life began in a snowed in log cabin on the shores of the Red River near Selkirk during a blizzard on December 13, 1942. Welcoming him to the world was his grandmother, who acted as midwife. He was raised in Dryden where a childhood of fishing, boating and athletics in the glorious outdoors of Northern Ontario gave him a penchant for going shirtless anywhere and everywhere, a habit that persisted into his final days. An accomplished pole vaulter, football and baseball player, Chuck's first love was sports. He followed that passion to the University of North Dakota and became a physical education teacher after returning to Canada. Chuck started his teaching career in Dryden followed by posts in Winnipeg, Stonewall and Dominion City. He finally arrived home in 1975 when he took a job at Lac du Bonnet Senior School. Here he met, wooed, married and had his first child with a young colleague named Susan Poyser, all in less than a year. Their love endures to this day. Chuck gave everything he had to his family, his job, and his community. He immersed himself in coaching, mentoring decades of Lac du Bonnet volleyball, basketball, baseball, badminton, cross country and track athletes. He bought a cargo van as his personal vehicle to transport his teams to games in the absence of a school bus. His style was unorthodox. He was humourous, loud, brash and confrontational. He held people to account. He often fought with his students. Many have told us they now realize he had been fighting for them. Chuck's career would end in 1999 as the vice-principal at LDBSS, but his contribution to the community only grew. He would serve as the trainer of the LDB Blues for more than a decade, was the president of the local Lions Club and the president of the now defunct South Interlake Hockey League. He served three terms as a school trustee in the Sunrise and Agassiz School Divisions. He was a mainstay on the zamboni at the LDB arena these past few years, paid largely in ice cream and french fries. As much as Chuck gave to his students, friends and community, he gave even more to those closest to him. Unabashedly proud of his family, Chuck rarely left our sides. Chores and recreation were always done with his wife, kids, or grandkids in tow. Nothing was left unsaid. You knew you were never far from the top of his mind. You knew you were his everything. It was great. He loved to cook and fed his loved ones exotic and delicious food from scratch. We struggled with our weight. It was wonderful. Chuck didn't have acquaintances. There was no middle ground. If he knew you, he had taken you into his heart. There were so many people in that heart. For those lucky enough to have spent our lives in there, it was an indescribably beautiful place to live. Paradise. A memorial for Chuck will be held at the Lac du Bonnet Community Centre at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 14, 2015. In lieu of flowers donations will be collected towards a memorial scholarship for deserving LDBSS graduates. If you would like to honour dad's memory, it's easy. Give a smile. Make someone a sandwich (or a feast). Crack a joke. Hug a loved one. Hug a friend. Go watch a football game. Throw a ball. Cheer for the Canadiens. Boo the Maple Leafs. Live. Dad, we love you and we miss you. Travel well and take a rest. You've earned it. Seasons Funeral Service 204-444-5444 www.seasonsfunerals.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 12, 2015

Condolences & Memories (37 entries)

  • Susan so sorry to hear about Chuck. Although we did not know you and Chuck for very long, we knew from the start how lucky we were to have you as neighbours. Our deepest condolences. - Posted by: Irvin and Sandi Koch (LDB summer neighbours) on: Sep 11, 2015

  • Susan, Becky an Sean. I just learned tonight from my mom and dad of the passing of Chuck. David and I spent many a drive with him and Rudy from Pinawa to Lac Du Bonnet during our final years of high school. I cannot express how sorry I am to hear of his passing and send along my condolences to you all. David and I will never forget the the silver van with the propane heater in the back on those -30 drives. Darren - Posted by: Darren Styles (Student, car pool companion) on: Aug 26, 2015

  • Wish to offer my condolences to Sue and family on the passing of Chuck Reynolds. It was never hard to tell when Chuck was in the room and always a pleasure to have him there. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. - Posted by: Gord lysen (Family friend) on: Aug 19, 2015

  • I did not see my cousin much, after I moved to the States as a girl of 21. But, I heard nice things about him from my mom, who said that he had a great laugh, and looked like his dad,(he does). She ,(my mom), liked him a lot, and that was good enough for me. I did hear that he was a terrific teacher, as well as a handsome guy. It seems that he lived larger than life, and touched many. That's not bad. But my condolences to the family. June - Posted by: June Gowryluk Feldman (cousin) on: Aug 14, 2015

  • What a beautiful and fitting tribute to Chuck! I have fond memories of grape jelly meatballs, skiing in Montana and drinks at Lakeview. I have lost touch with the Reynolds but imagine that Sean and Becky continue to be the friendly, funny and caring people who they were as teenagers. My thoughts and condolences to Susan, Becky, Sean and their greater families. - Posted by: Christine Chaboyer () on: Aug 14, 2015

  • When I think of Uncle Charlie, I can't help but smile. He planted vibrant memories in our lives like flowers in a garden. Each memory filled with love, compassion and laughter. I will always keep them close to my heart. So when I think of Uncle Charlie and I feel loss, I will remember all the beauty he planted around us. He will always live on in our memories. I love you Uncle Charlie... - Posted by: Kristy and Chad (niece and nephew) on: Aug 14, 2015

  • I heard the news today of Mr. Reynolds' passing and I couldn't believe it. There are too many stories and memories of Mr. Reynolds to tell, but almost all revolve around school sports; I still remember the boys basketball team going to provincials and winning and just how proud he was of them and of our entire school for coming together to support them. I was lucky to never face a 'frustrated' Mr. Reynolds , but you always knew that it was coming from a place of caring - he just wanted us all to do better and to live up to our potential. My condolences go out to the entire family; please know that you are in many people's prayers. - Posted by: Danielle Keenan (Former Student) on: Aug 14, 2015

  • Over the last couple days, I've been fighting a battle I'm not used to fighting for a long time....the fight to hold back tears....a fight I have not always won throughout the whole 2 days since I found out. Just like I know Seany and Beck and Sue and EVERYONE, we all feel like we've been suckerpunched in the heart!! For myself, it's because, for a stretch of many years, at least 9 or so, I was truly fortunate enough to consider (at least to myself)that I was Chucky's son that got dropped on him...or his weekend son....or the son that had another home, but wouldn't GO home cuz he was having some of the times of his life!! I can't even begin to talk about all the unbelievably awesome times I've experienced due to Chuck making things happen and including me in them, and that's not exaggerating!! Or the kindness he showered on me, for no reason, he just did it...and it was almost hard NOT TO take it for granted, because he did it so easily!! It was truly that massive of a part of my growing up!! From a feast made out of what originally appeared like there was nothing there (cuz Sean and I SWORE we raided the fridge before Chucky got home!!) to what was one of the trickiest things for me, a dang ride home to Lee River after any of our activities, which, I can't even count the times the van, and then the truck made it out that way for me, to an activity that everyone (again, I'm including myself here) had a role to play to get it done, to just an in depth chat, that led to an argument, that led to just a cool understanding of where everyone was at, I cannot and will not forget that glint in Chucky's eye and his smile when things were rolling along A-1, or his sheer (sometimes to the point of exhaustion)determination to make things right when they may not have been. I've been saying over and over how lucky I was to get to know this man like I did for those, what I call, the most formative years of my life. Sometimes, as time goes by, you can tend to get more cynical about how "everybody is out for themselves" and things like "don't worry about others cuz they sure aren't worrying about you" but I can truly and honestly say, when it comes to thinking about all the time I spent with the Reynolds' , and how much they welcomed and included me in sooooo much of their lives, the things I can't FOR THE LIFE OF ME remember ever hearing from Chuck are the words "No"....or "I/we can't" or "don't bother cuz you don't have a chance"....cuz I think he ALWAYS thought there was a chance...for anything you wanted to achieve!! And he would do everything in his power he could to help you get that chance!! And seemed to enjoy doing it!! Unfortunately, I have to already not be like Chuck, as I can't be there tomorrow to see all the family and friends that he had such an impact on, be in one solemn place together to share the amazing memories (my work location and rotation makes it impossible.:( I would need Chucky here to figure it out, cuz he would!!) but going forward, which we all have to, we need to take the things he taught and showed us and apply it the way he did. Make all of your friends, family and people important to you feel like they are MORE than welcome!! Make them feel SPECIAL!!! *forever and always remembering Shucky Shebamm!!! - Posted by: Darren Sarapu (friend doesn't fully describe) on: Aug 13, 2015

  • We are so sorry to hear about the loss of a father, a friend and a great man. He always had a smile and always took time to say hello. He was never too busy and took time to visit and share some little tidbit. He will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Mr. Reynolds. - Posted by: Louise , Kristin and Lawrence Bruce () on: Aug 13, 2015

  • Susan, Becky, and Sean - I'm so sorry for your loss. I know how much Chuck meant to all of you and especially to his grandchildren. I don't think there's anyone who went to LDBSS who wasn't at least a little bit afraid of Chuck at some time or another….so it always made me smile to watch him with his grandchildren the last few years and to see what a kind a gentle soul he truly was. My family's thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Cynthia, Jamie, and Dayle (Neighbour) on: Aug 13, 2015

  • Chuck and I began our careers at LDBSS at the same time, a long time ago, carpooled and even began a short career in construction together. The comments all ring absolutely true about Chuck. My friend was always intense, especially about his friendships and in the car, to and from work, his politics. We never agreed but therein lay the power of our debates. Chuck saw the world his way and loved to debate my errors, and if not more logically, definitely more intensely. Sadly that stopped with retirement and now forever. Carry on my friend, wherever the wind carries you, you will be remembered. - Posted by: Rudi (colleague and friend) on: Aug 13, 2015

  • "Nothing was left unsaid"..."You knew you were his everything" WOW... Chuck, in the game of life, you hit the series clinching grand slam. RIP Jon Arseniuk & Family "Simple truth is his best, his greatest eulogy" (A. Adams 1799) - Posted by: Jon Arseniuk (Disciple) on: Aug 13, 2015

  • We want to send our sincere condolences to all of you. We went to school wit Becky and Jason. Mr. Reynolds was our teacher in LDBSS and memories of him were awesome.. he pushed you to do your best, even if that isn't what you wanted to hear at the time - but I can still see that smirk on his face.. which meant he liked you. I used to do run 100/200/300m in Track & Field and he told me one time that if I used my energy on my running and not socializing, I would be a star. hahaha. There isn't one student that doesn't know that name "MR. REYNOLDS" We are very sorry for your loss. He was a good guy. Rest in Peace Mr. Reynolds. - Posted by: Rachelle, Mike & Nicole Heroux (Students of his) on: Aug 13, 2015

  • Susan, Sean, and Becky I'm so sorry for your loss. I have great memories of teaching and fishing with Chuck - he was one of the first people to welcome me to the staff at LdBSS. I will never forget him, and the impact he had on my life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. - Posted by: Mike Schuster () on: Aug 13, 2015

  • Susan and family, so very sorry to hear of your loss. Chuck was someone I always admired. His strength and family values were untouchable. I was always impressed on how he handled the kids of my daughters era with firmness but compassion as well. You will be deeply missed, Chuck. My sincere sympathy to the entire family, - Posted by: Brian Cinq-Mars (Friend) on: Aug 13, 2015

  • Glenn and I send our heartfelt condolences to Susan, Becky and Sean and their families. Chuck played an enormous role in Glenn's life growing up. He was a teacher, coach, mentor and ultimately, a friend. He was also responsible for introducing Glenn and I. It was Canada Day weekend in 2003. Both Glenn and Chuck were at the beer gardens when I arrived, and both appeared to be having a pretty great time. Glenn was DANCING if that was any indication of the fun taking place! I had just purchased a house and Chuck offered his help if I needed it. He was a generous and thoughtful friend to me who helped me feel welcome and supported in my new community. RIP Chuck and Thank You! Carrie & Glenn Kettles - Posted by: Carrie Kettles (Friend) on: Aug 13, 2015

  • Hearing of the tragic news Saturday came to a shock and broke my heart instantly. Chuck was such an admired, respected and appreciated one-of-a-kind mentor. I, as well as my son, will miss him a lot for being a super grandpa, friend, person you knew to see at the arena, baseball diamonds and one you can count on to be there. He never missed a hockey game for Jack or the Blues. The community definately lost one of their best supporters! We will think of you often Chuck and always remember your smile, laugh, humor and down right greatness!! - Posted by: Alex, Jaedys & Jeff (Family Friend) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Big hugs to Mrs. Reynolds, Beckey, Jay, Shawn, Laura and grand babies. I am saddened by this sudden news. My condolences to you all. May time heel knowing Mr. Reynolds has touched so many people. My last visit with him on the street not to long ago was a sweet conversation about our babies as he held Finn with a smile on his face. My principal, coach and family friend you will always be in my heart Mr. Reynolds. - Posted by: Charlene (Family friend) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • What a wonderful obituary. I am so sorry I never had the opportunity to know Chuck, but from what I've just read, I'd say he lives on in his equally gregarious and giving son. Sean, what a blessing to have had a man like that for a father. I'm so sorry he had to leave you so soon. I know he must have been very, very proud of you and your beautiful family. Please know that I'm thinking of you, your sister and your Mom. - Posted by: Janet Stewart (friend of Sean Reynolds) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • My kids were little many years ago when we first met the Reynolds. I sent my son the news and wasn't sure if he would know who I was talking about. Here is what I wrote to him: "He had the red cabin up the river from our house. One time we fished at his dock, and every time we caught a fish you ran it up the hill to Chuck to fillet and fry up. We were catching so many fish that he started calling his friends and pretty soon he had this big fish fry party going on. Also, we used to take our Goldeye to him and he would smoke them." My son responded with this: " I remember when he had a bocce tournament. My job was to stop the bocce balls from going into the lake. He was an important school person too." Of course he remembered Chuck! We all have many great memories of Chuck! - Posted by: D'Arcy McLean (Friend ) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • I began at LDBSS in grade 7 being terrified of Chuck, but by the time I graduated could laugh and joke around with him, seek his advice, and count on him for his many kindnesses. It's amazing to think of the number of kids whose lives he impacted. He was always such a character! My thoughts are with Susan, Becky & Jay, Sean & Laura and all the kids. I know you will hold him dearly in your hearts forever, as will countless others. Godspeed Mr. Reynolds. - Posted by: Mary Oscarson (Former student ) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • So very sorry to hear of Chuck's passing Susan. Such a shock. I know what you are going through. I didn't have as much connection with Chuck but know how his absence will affect his loved ones. Again, so sorry to the family. - Posted by: Joan Galka (Deceased Husband's cousin) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Chuck was such an amazing teacher. He always cared about his students & kept track of them all. My daughter was one of his many students & went to school with Becky. We have good memories of his thoughtfulness & services to this community. Chuck -you will never be forgotten!! Blessings to his whole family for having shared this great man with us!! - Posted by: Debby Bridges (Mother of former student) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Chuck was such a family oriented man! I am going to miss our kitchen adventures the most at family gatherings, learning all of Chucks tips and tricks; while sharing in many laughs!! Love you A. Sue, Beck, Jay, Sean, Laura & kiddos! May you find peace and comfort in all of the loving adventures you've shared! xo - Posted by: Kay () on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Our condolences to the Reynolds family. He was our daughters teacher in LDBSS and being a small town, we knew him in various activities. We often wondered how he could go to the post office to get his mail in his gym shorts and t-shirts when it was -35 in January, but he did! - Posted by: Leo & Fran Drabyk (Acquaintance) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Going to miss Chuck. He was always quick with a smile and a large Hello. When asked, how are you doing, he was genuine. Chuck never waffled or maintained a gray area, his opinion was well received and I always felt better after a quick visit with Chuck....a big thanks, a sad loss. A loss far to early, our sincere condolences to family and close friends.RR - Posted by: Fred & Jo-Anne Pedruchny (Friend - LDB) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Susan, Sean, Becky Sue and families, it is with great sadness and shock that I heard of your Dad's passing. I had a great time visiting last summer and getting to know him and all the family. Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. Cathy - Posted by: Cathy (Friend) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Sean and Laura, we are so sorry for your loss. May God hold you and keep you in His loving arms until the day you see your dad again. Let your memories of him make you smile. Gord and Marcie Kosman - Posted by: Gordon Kosman (Friends) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss. Take care and find comfort in the many happy memories and support of loved ones. - Posted by: Val Bullen () on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Thoughts and prayers to the family! - Posted by: Tiffiny and Dustin Feniuk (From LDB) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Chuck played an integral role in my daughters years at school in Lac du Bonnet...he will also be missed at the local grocery store stopping by for a cookie with the grandchildren...what a great man!!!Condolences to the family.. - Posted by: Angie Arthur () on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Every story I have of Chuck Reynolds makes me laugh or cry. All anyone could hope for is to touch people's lives as positively and profoundly as he did. Thanks for being you Chuck! - Posted by: Robert Pankratz (Friend) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • As a young student teacher, I was a guest in Chuck and Susan's home on a few occasions in 1978. I have often thought back, with fondness, to the warm hospitality and fabulous food. My condolences to you all. - Posted by: Gwen MacTavish (Colleague ) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Beautiful write up for a hometown hero. I grew up playing against Mr. Reynolds' teams in hockey and school sports. He was hard to like as an opponent, but very easy to admire and look up to. His passion for his teams and school was inspirational. I could go on and on... I know how much Chuck meant to the community - especially his family. Best wishes to all those that are going through this very dufficult time. On a personal level, I will miss Chuck's visits to LdBSS and how his face lit up when he saw students and the work they were doing. He was a mentor and a friend. He was a doer not a talker - I am one of many he inspired (and/or scared- ha) to do better and be better. RIP Mr. Reynolds. - Posted by: Lonnie Liske () on: Aug 12, 2015

  • Chuck was so many things,large personality, witty, funny as hell, persistent, loved his family fiercely, passionate about life, too many things to list. He did have one flaw...he cheered for the Canadians, I only wish I had more time to turn you onto a Leafs fan. Going to miss you Mr. REYNOLDS! - Posted by: Torrie () on: Aug 12, 2015

  • When I first met Chuck I had just moved in across the street from him. It wasn't long before Chuck and his wife Susan made us feel welcome in Pinawa. He was a larger than life man and always had a joke to tell. Susan, Sean and Becky I am so sorry for your loss, please know that I cherish my memories of him. - Posted by: Eva Beaudoin (neighbour in Pinawa) on: Aug 12, 2015

  • I want to send my condolences to Susan, Sean & Laura, Becky & Jay and of course Chuck's precious grand children. Chuck was my high school P.E teacher and my later became my co-worker and friend. He will be missed and was a big part of our community. I have many stories of Chuck and the last few days anyone I talk to everyone had a story to tell about him. Be strong and hold onto the loving memories you have of your husband, father, grandfather and friend. - Posted by: marilyn stewart (family friend) on: Aug 12, 2015

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