December 3, 2022
In loving memory ~
Charles passed away on Saturday, December 3rd, 2022, at NRGH at the age of 80, after a hard-fought battle following a knee replacement surgery. He was surrounded in love at the time of passing by his wife Ella, and family.
He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Heathcote and mother, Thelma (McGarrigle) Heathcote. Charles is survived by his wife Ella (of 56 years); sister Sally-Beth Gimse, (Carl); son Justin Heathcote (Wendy); daughter Carey Heathcote Nichol (Sean); grandsons Joel Heathcote (Chelsy) and Dawson Heathcote (Amara); granddaughters Emily and Sophie; 3 great-grandchildren Harper, Leo, Josie; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Charles was born and raised in Nanaimo growing up in Harewood and Northfield on McGarrigle Road which was named after his grandparents.
Charles spent a lot of time as a young boy playing hockey at the Civic arena where he later watched and coached his son Justin in hockey. He also coached his daughter Carey in softball and continued to love to watch his grandkids play sports. Charlie always looked forward to his annual (GFFC) Good Friday Fishing Club trips with Neen, Allack, and Fred Nazarak, Darrle Schlitz, Josh Wagnor, Morley Greenman and Bob Cribbs. They had many Good Friday fishing days and lots of good times.
Charles will be always remembered for driving Ford pickups, his car racing days and his famous burgundy 57 Ford named "Charlie's Chariot."
Mostly he will be remembered by his family and friends for being an honest, hard-working, and kind person who loved to train young workers and took great pride in their accomplishments.
His work accomplishments were many over the years: President of the Upper Island Truck and Equipment Owner's Association, a member of The Truck Logger's Association and also donated his machine and time to break ground that helped build the running track at what is now the Rotary Bowl.
Charles was a part of the construction of the Cowichan highway, he also owned and operated a logging camp and built various logging roads on the West Coast. Chuck worked for many major forest companies in B.C. In his later years, he operated Lockwood Rock Pit and Quarry until his retirement.
The family would like to thank the Doctors and Nurses at the NRGH ICU, for their kindness and caring.
In lieu of flowers donations would be appreciated to the ICU at NRGH.
As per Charles' wishes, there will be no service. The family would like to thank all those who have sent condolences, food, flowers and kind words to assist during this difficult time.
"MAY THE WORK I'VE DONE SPEAK FOR ME"