Wallace, Chesley Phillip McLennan
27 July 1926 - 17 August 2017

Ches passed contentedly at ARCH after 91 years of profound energy, laughter, and good will. Best friend and beloved husband of the late Francis. Dear Father of Peggy (Brian) and Jane (Andy). Proud Grandfather of Charlie and Grace. Predeceased by his parents Frank and Olive Wallace and his sister Lois Wallace. Favourite brother-in-law of Alberta, Irene (Bruce), Ardith (Jack), Gladys (Murray), Oliver (Sue), and the late Betty (Bert) and Barbara. Legendary and loved uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. Loving friend of the late Alice and to Carol and the Trainor Family. Ches was born in Montreal and raised in Hemmingford, Quebec on farms that the family have owned since the 1770’s. He studied at McGill University and after graduation worked briefly in Ottawa doing some of the first research in genetically modifying crops. His love of forestry brought him to Northern Ontario in the 1950’s, to Manitoulin Island and along the north shore where he worked for the Ontario Paper Company. Eventually he and Fran moved to St. Joseph Island where he taught high school math and science and where they began operating a sugar bush that became the heart of their family. Ches loved the bush and his gardens and was happiest outdoors. He was a dedicated, accomplished, and natural teacher for whom his students were an extension of his family; he always said that they were perfect and strived to make them see that. He was committed to the ideal of community and to various Island organizations. He was the very best storyteller. Ches lived and breathed generosity and laughter. A great character has moved on to the next adventure. Friends and family may call at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Jocelyn on Wednesday August 23, 2017 from 10am until time of memorial service at 12noon with The Reverend Rosalie Goos officiating. Interment in Holy Trinity Anglican Churchyard will be followed by a time of refreshment and fellowship at the Jocelyn Township Hall on the P Line.
Profound thanks to the caregivers and thoughtful friends and neighbours who helped make Ches’ life so very rich. In lieu of flowers donations to the Dr Harold S. Trefry Memorial Centre, North Shore Health Network Auxiliary – Matthews Site, ARCH or the charity of your choice would be gratefully appreciated.