BRYAN, Charles A., (Skip) passed away peacefully in the arms of Barbara, November 24, 2008. Skip was born in Red Deer AB, November 11, 1919. He was schooled in Edmonton, Stettler and Victoria (Mountview). Skip joined the RCN in 1938; he was a WWII Veteran having served on the destroyer HMCS Huron. Skip retired from the Navy in 1963 and went on to 22 great years as Supervisor of the Equipment Room of McKinnon Gym at UVIC.
Predeceased by his first wife Edith, brothers Nelson and Willoughby and sister Dorothy.
Skip is survived by his lovingly, devoted wife Barbara, who will cherish his memory. As will his sister Lauretta (Tom).
Skip also leaves behind his families, stepson Harold (Jan) Gregg, three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren all of whom loved him and have special memories of Skip. With Barb he leaves six stepfamilies, including 17 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. For all of whom he had a special love and all of who had the same love for him. Also survived by nieces and nephews, left with memories of Uncle Charlie.
Skip was an ardent sports fan and played many sports as a young man. He was a fierce competitor, always getting the best out of the competition, even grandchildren didn’t get a “let win”. Skip had memberships in The Gorge Vale Golf Club, The Victoria Curling Club, The CPO’s Assoc., The Royal Canadian Legion and the HMCS Huron Assoc.
Skip was a true gentleman, a loyal friend and beloved prankster; there was always a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye. He loved to dance and many Saturday evenings were spent at the Dockers Club with Barb. Skip’s family had humor as their common bond and friends and family were often caught up in one of Skip’s practical jokes. He just loved to see the expressions on the grandkids faces after pulling something on them or just telling them a tale.
The Lodge at Broadmead was Skip’s ‘home’ away from home in his final years where he was well cared for by the exceptionally devoted staff. The family would like to thank all that cared for Skip on Magnolia Lodge and for the support you gave Barb. She will always have fond memories of the staff.
A Celebration of Skip’s Life will be held at the Chief’s and Petty Officers Assoc., 618 Admirals Rd. on December 17th, at 4:00pm.
In lieu of flowers a donation to the Lodge at Broadmead would be deeply appreciated for all the loving care the Veterans receive.
Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
P.S. St. Peter, Skip will be the one wearing the plastic nose and glasses.
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