January 1, 1957 - July 10, 2020
Gregory Allan Chadwick, born in Ladysmith BC January 1, 1957 passed away July 10, 2020.
In our opinion he did not lose the battle to cancer, he outlived all expectations and left on his own terms; peacefully, at home, with loved ones around him.
Greg; a gentle giant, an outstanding caring son, husband, father, brother, uncle & Gapa.
He brought so much love and happiness to the love of his life, Christine; soul mates who will meet up at the river again one day.
Predeceased in 2005 by his father Mervin Chadwick and nephew Les Chadwick, he is lovingly remembered by his mom, Eunice Chadwick; wife, Christine De Clark-Chadwick; son, Benjamin Chadwick (Katie); step daughter, Danielle Prenger (Nathan); step son, Michael Weir and granddaughter, Avery Prenger; brothers Douglas Chadwick (Teresa), Warren Chadwick (Trina) & Christopher Chadwick, sisters Brenda Chadwick, Gloria Blitterswyk (David) & Kellie Chadwick; in-laws Lynne Delucia (Dom) & Bob De Clark (Delaine), Tammy Dewar (Keith) Debbie De Clark (Cory) and Rob De Clark (Angie) Also affectionately remembered by so many special nieces, nephews and cousins that he adored; super close friends, step family, the out-laws, and a special person he shared jeans with.
Born one of seven siblings his family was close. When not playing sports or with neighbourhood friends most time was spent at Chadwicks farm. So many amazing memories made with his siblings and cousins. As a young teenager Greg worked for Key Furniture, with his first paycheque he bought his mom a new fridge. He was a carpenter and machine operator for most of his career. As a perfectionist he was precise and considered all the options. He was sought after for many jobs and commended for his digging by hand! He worked hard all his life mostly on Vancouver Island with a few years in Valley View, Alta. One of his greatest achievements and a role he held in high regard was being dad.
Greg was strong & athletic; playing baseball, rep hockey, BCJHL hockey for Chilliwack Bruins, volleyball, running a Vancouver Marathon, Great Lake Walks and Holland Creek runs. Greg loved coaching "the boys" in hockey and baseball. Greg-Ho was known to be part bloodhound as he amazed coaches with his ability to find all the foul balls!! Many co-workers & sport-mates became friends and remained in his life.
Greg, an amazing dancer, such moves!! and his baking, wow, especially his special one of a kind birthday cakes!! People walking by and avid gardeners would swoon over Greg's amazing flower garden. He was called Ferdinand by his dad. His latest role of "Gapa" brought him such joy.
Everywhere Greg went, with his gentle (sometimes cheeky) smile & firm handshake, he made a lasting and positive impression on people. His stoic presence had everyone in awe. He continued to work hard after his cancer diagnosis, providing years of data to the BC Cancer Agency under various clinical trials which in turn, gave us precious time with him.
Greg and Christine are so grateful to the family, friends and coworkers who stayed by their side for the last 6 years. Also to the amazing doctors, nurses, clinical trial staff and Palliative teams. BC Cancer Agency, Ladysmith Family Practice Clinic/Community Health Centre, Dr. Masuda, Cowichan Hospice & a special thanks to our very own nurse Katie.
As hard as it was for them to see all the patients at the BC Cancer Agency and be grateful for all the prostate cancer funders and researchers what hit Greg the most is when he learned of young people getting cancer so in lieu of any gestures please consider a donation to the BC Children's Hospital Cancer Department.
Greg was wise & insightful; he helped many through difficult times. He would say this to us today: "Our greatest strength as a human being is our ability to adapt"
Due to covid a celebration of life will be held at a later date (what a shame).
We love you Gregor - until we meet at the river again. xoxoxo