December 19, 1946 ~ March 11, 2025
Chuck passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 11th, 2025.
He was predeceased by his parents David and Betty (nee Weatherhead) Holgate, and his sisters Susan Holgate (Fairley) and Betty Ann Bellerose. Chuck is profoundly missed by his surviving siblings Marg Holgate (Sault Ste. Marie), Marion Holgate (London), Christine DeLyzer (Haliburton) and Ernie Cachagee-Holgate (Montreal). He is also missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Chuck lived in Winnipeg with his family for five teenage years followed by a short time on his own in Toronto. He made a permanent move back to the Sault in the mid 1970’s where he soon began a rewarding 25-year career teaching Heavy Equipment at Sault College.
Upon his return to the Sault, Chuck developed a lifelong passion for sailing. He cruised extensively in the North Channel, around Manitoulin Island and the east end of Superior. He raced locally in formal and friendly matches, and crewed many times on local boats in international races such as the Mac/Man, the Chicago/Mac and the Trans-Superior. Chuck was a loyal member of the Algoma Sailing Club and served on the club’s executive in various roles, including Commodore. His passion for sailing lasted long after he sold his last boat; some of his sailing buddies included him on cruises and races, and sought his sailing advice drawn from decades of experience.
After retiring from Sault College, Chuck began acting with local amateur theatre groups including the Algoma Repertory Company, Sault Theatre Workshop and Family Life Theatre. He starred in many of these shows, often 2 and 3 productions a year. He consistently impressed audiences with his acting talents and in some roles, his resonant bass/baritone singing voice.
Known to his family as Char, he thoroughly enjoyed times spent with them, be they harmonizing around the piano at Christmas and reunions, joining the ‘silly sisters’ at annual golf events, or in recent years, trekking to London or Haliburton for multi-generational family celebrations.
Chuck had a talent for putting smiles on faces. He was the king of puns and corn ball jokes. He will be missed by many in the Sault as a non-judgmental and discrete friend who was quick to offer support.
Cremation has taken place as per Chuck’s wishes. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, mourners are encouraged to consider donations payable by cheque or online to the Canadian Cancer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East, 705-759-2522). Online condolences may be left at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Holgate family.