It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our cherished husband, dad, brother, grandpa and great-grandpa at The Ottawa Hospital - Civic Campus on Friday, Sept. 1, 2023, in his 92nd year. Survived by his loving wife of 67 years Margaret, and four children, David, Heather (Dick), Michele (Craig) and Pam (Rob). Cherished grandpa to Andrew (Terra), Jeremy, Cory (Caitlin), Travis (Heather), Katie, Megan and special great-grandpa to Bréa, Kaia, Quinn and Violet.
Charles was born on Sept. 11, 1931, in Edy's Mills, Ont., to the late Merton Knight and Agnes (nee Dykeman). He is survived by his three brothers Eldon, Ron (Wynn) and Lyle (Sharon).
Charles began his career in the Canadian Armed Forces reserves in 1951 and joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1955. He attended Western University where he met and married Margaret and graduated with his MD. Charles spent 39 years as a military physician stationed across Canada, rising through the ranks as a seasoned administrator and finishing his career in Ottawa. From 1982 to 1985, he was commandant of the National Defence Medical Centre (NDMC). In 1985, Charles was appointed deputy surgeon general and in 1988 he was appointed surgeon general. Charles served as surgeon general until his retirement from the military in 1990.
In retirement, Charles was able to enjoy spending time with his grandchildren, making sure the pool was always ready to be used, tending to his vegetable gardens, helping Margaret with her volunteer work and spending time in the woods with Stan. Charles was an active member of the United Church of Canada, joining local congregations wherever he was posted and has been active in City View United since coming to Ottawa in 1979. In retirement, he continued supporting the work of the church as executive director of the United Church and through many committees at both Ottawa Presbytery and City View United.
Charles had an incredible memory and penchant for detail and ensured committees always followed the "rule of order." He enjoyed the love, laughter and compassion over the last few years at Stirling Park Retirement Residence, where he lived with Margaret. We are very grateful for the love and attention he received from the staff at Stirling and the compassionate care of the staff at The Ottawa Hospital in his final days.
In lieu of flowers, donations to City View United Church and the Perley Health Foundation are appreciated.