I met Chuck quite a few times in Victoria whether it was a caucus retreat, or connecting up with Reform Party or Canadian Alliance staff and MP'S getting ready for an election. Chuck had two families which included his own family and his constituents.  I offer my deepest condolences to his family and friends. RIP Chuck.

To Chuck’s loving wife, Debbie, & family we send our love and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss. May God comfort you all. We have wonderful memories of time spent with you both when we lived in Chilliwack. We look forward to that great reunion day. 
Cindy & Bob Taylor in Miramichi, NB

Deb, it has taken me many days to write this simple letter expressing at once my sorrow, my thoughts of you and my memories of Chuck. My memories are such an incoherent jumble: his cinnamon bun wonders, our shared memories of childhood: kicked out after breakfast and not to be seen until lunch (this over a playground for the grandchildren) his joy in digging out the pond and moving the rocks, the man who kicked the cougar (the story, not Chuck!) too many hydrangeas, the later surprise meeting in Devan…. So much, so much too little.  All of it bathed in the tremendous warmth & laughter that seemed to always surround him.  His friendship has meant so much to me and yours still does.  With this all my love and support in what I know must be a difficult time.  Marian

Chuck and I were colleagues in the House of Commons for many years. He was my opposition critic and we would often share our life experiences. He was a strait shooter, honest, cordial and a genuine jovial person who only wanted to make his country a better place for all. He will be missed but never forgotten. To his wife and family, Maryann and I extend our deepest sympathy. 
Hon. Don Boudria, P.C.

Chuck and I were first elected in 1993, me on the government side, he on the opposition side.  Nevertheless, we had a cordial and respectful relationship.  We helped to prove that you can work on common causes 'across the aisle'.  That was due in no small measure to the kind of person he was.  Chuck was a man of integrity dedicated to doing the best for the people of his constituency and for all Canadians.  He served well.

My Sincere Condolences

Chuck was the epitome of a principled, dedicated, likeable politician. Although I came later than Chuck joining with him in the Reform Party elected ranks in 1997, I served with him in the House of Commons until his retirement in 2011, and, several years after to note regrettably his political and personal absence from the House.

So sorry to learn of his departure, far too early in life, now from family and friends.

May Chuck now Rest In Peace. He has earned it well.

Peter Goldring
MP  Edmonton East  1997-2015

Saddened to hear of Chuck's passing. I will always remember his leadership and kindness, as well as his legendary good humor. It was a privilege to serve with this remarkable colleague. My condolences to the family and loved ones, with my thoughts and prayers.

So sorry for your loss. RIP. Ron  and Winnie Bateman

May the hand that rules this mighty universe provide you all with 
 strength,peace and comfort. We only met the family when Mark married our neice Lisa and our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Cheryl Aaron Thygesen

Saddened to hear of Chuck's passing. His kindness and his infectious laugh will be missed by many. May you all be held gently in the palm of God's hand.
Lois Brown,
MP Newmarket-Aurora (Ret'd)

In 1993, the citizens of Canada sent 52 Reform Members to sit in opposition in the House of Commons.  Chuck was one of the political gladiators sent to hold the government accountable to the people. It was a honour to serve alongside Chuck Strahl. I remember meeting him,  talking in depth about his family and his family business and his career in the logging industry in British Columbia. I recall his great sense of humour and will never forget him saying, “ the only good tree…is a log”. His smile lite up the room. Chuck  enjoyed  the rugged environment of B.C. and believed in sustainable management of the resources God entrusted us with. Everyone knew of his faith in God and his life was guided by the promise of a living God. Chuck Strahl will be missed on earth. My sincere condolences to Debbie and all family members. Rest in peace Chuck. 

Jim Hart, Reform MP 1993-2000

My sincerest sympathy and condolences to the family of Chuck .
We were elected for the first time in 1993 and spent many years in the Parliament of Canada.  He was a man of deep conviction and will be sorely missed. Rest In Peace Chuck !

Chuck was truly a beautiful person.  He was always thoughtful, kind, defined what it meant to be a Christian and was the core of who he was.  Chuck obviously had an amazing career and accomplished so much in so many ways, but it was his faith, his values and morals that defined who he was which has left a permanent impression on me.
Deb my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gary Lunn

Triste nouvelle…Toutes mes pensées vous accompagnent dans cette épreuve. Je garde un excellent souvenir de Chuck. Que ce message vous apporte, réconfort et soutien pour la perte de cet être cher…! Sincères condoléances à toute sa famille! 

Sad news... All my thoughts are with you in these difficult times. I have fond memories of Chuck. May this message bring you comfort and support for the loss of this loved one...! Sincere condolences to all his family!

Diane St-Jacques

It is with sadness that I learned of the passing of Chuck, a gentleman with whom I had the honor of serving. As an agricultural critic, I argued with him on many subjects, but he was always respectful and eager to find solutions. My sincere condolences to the family.

I did not serve with Chuck in the House of Commons but I preceded him there  as a Member and I got to meet and know him while he would be carrying out his duties in Ottawa and in functions related to those.
I have never known or met a more complete servant of the political process, who you could feel that in his DNA, he not only saw the political differences, but he deeply respected them. A true partisan to his cause, he knew the other side's views were important for him to understand.
My most sincere condolences to his family.
Herb Breau
Ottawa

Yvonne and I send our sincere sympathies and deepest condolences to Debbie, Mark,  family and friends.  Chuck was a wonderful, kind, thoughtful friend beside being a devoted, true  reformer/conservative and a proud  Canadian.  I had many interactions with Chuck over the years which I enjoyed as he always gave his best and worked very hard for his constituents and all Canadians.  He will be missed, always remembered and forever loved. God’s blessings to  Debbie and his family.

Sincerely,
John.
Hon. John D. Reynolds P.C.

Chuck Strahl was the epitome of a great  MP . He and I were on different teams in the House of Commons but I always liked, admired and respected Chuck . He was kind , empathetic , smart , funny and did not indulge in bitter partisanship . We both came from lumbering backgrounds and many times would discuss lumbering and the forest industry .  It was a special bond between us . He had a smile that would light up any room and a gregarious personality that endeared him to many . Probably , the best liked MP in parliament . Sincere condolences to his lovely spouse Debbie and Chuck's family with the loss of their patriarch . Rest in peace my friend knowing you touched the lives of so many people in a positive way !  Hector Clouthier

Hon. John Duncan

Chuck and I were elected as part of the contingent of 24 Reform MPs from BC in 1993.
We immediately recognized our comman background having both come from the Coastal logging industry.  We shared our backgrounds and stories.
We shared Opposition status in the House of Commons for 13 years..
In Government Chuck served as Minister in several roles.  I was honoured to serve as his Parliamentary Secretary when he was Minister of Indian Affairs.  Chuck went out of his way to  include me in all things with the Department.  I am witness to his leadership and his warmth and competency.  His sense of humour was appropriate in every discussion or debate.  His mentorship eased my transition as Minister when he moved to be Minister of Transport.
He was a great friend and colleague.
I wish Debbie and  family my most sincere condolences.

It was an honour to serve with Chuck in the House of Commons. He always had a great sense of duty to his constituents and a wonderful funny side..
I thank his family for sharing him with all of us..
May he have eternal peace 
Peter Stoffer
Windsor Junction 
Nova Scotia

To  Chucks family. I think we were elected to Parliament at the same time in 1993 and although we were in quite opposite Party's - me Liberal, he several as Conservatives bounced arround to find their footing. Chuck was always a gentleman even to his critics, of which I was one when he was Ag Minister. We may have differed on policy especially the Wheat Board but he would ALWAYS have his staff help out on an issue.  That is the way politics should be, and he set a great example.
Truely sorry on his passing. Canada has lost one of its best.

What a loss. There are not enough wonderful words to describe Chuck.  He was the epitome of grace, kindness, good humour, intelligence  and the highest regard for family.
He was the best kind of politician.
What a sad time for his family. May his memory be a blessing.

Our condolences, Marlie Oden and Ken Newbert

So sorry to hear.  Sincere condolences to all the family. I was pleased to share time in Parliament with Chuck. Loss of a caring Canadian. 
RIP Chuck

Sincere condolences. Chuck and I were first elected together in 1993. He always added much to the Caucus. He was especially adept at using distracting humour to ease a tense situation. A man of character, Chuck was an example personally of what a family man should be, and professionally of how to lead positively.

I am very sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. We were colleagues in the House of Commons and even though under different parties, we were always able to chat and work together. My sincere condolences to the family. Nancy Karetak-Lindell Former MP for Nunavut

Chuck was a leader, friend, colleague, mentor and statesman. Thoroughly decent and kind, substantive and honest, clear in purpose and commitment.  I was honoured to know him and work alongside him, to share laughs, stories and struggles.  His legacy of public service lives forever and I wish everyone has the good fortune in life to ever know and befriend someone as great as Chuck.  Rest well.

I have many fond memories of Chuck as a friend and a colleague.  He inspired me to aim high and work hard while I was in opposition as the agriculture critic for the Mb PC party. His advice was timely and contributed to our forming government in 2016 where I served as the Minister of Agriculture in Mb. 
Chuck always saw the bigger picture and he happily shared his perspectives with his colleagues.  To this day I value and appreciate  his help. He will always be fondly remembered. Thanks Chuck. 
Ralph Eichler

I was so sorry to hear of Chuck's death. He fought the good fight for a long time battling his cancer. It was a privilege to serve in the House of Commons with him. He led by example and never compromised his Christian beliefs. He is now in the presence of his Saviour jesus Christ and is free from the limitations and pain of his earthly body. My sincere sympathies to his wife and family. May God bring you his peace and comfort at this time.
Reed Elley,
former MP Nanaimo/Cowichan
Chemainus,BC

We are so sorry to hear of the loss of Chuck. Wonderful guy in all ways. 
Pic is at CFB Edmonton. Rick and Jeanene

Chuck was a fierce and effective political combatant. But away from the cameras, he was a warm, considerate, and fun-loving individual. In other words, he was one of the good guys.

May he now RIP.

Sergio Marchi

May the love of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, sustain you always.
I did not know Mr. Strahl well, but was honoured to sit with him and his spouse several years ago at a social gathering.

Minister Strahl was Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada when I was Chief Federal Negotiator for the landmark Tsawwassen First Nation treaty. This was the first modern treaty in BC under the BC Treaty Commission process, the earlier Nisga'a treaty being concluded under a prior federal 1970's mandate. The photo was taken on signing of the legislation to give effect to the treaty Final agreement and Bill just before it was proudly tabled and introduced in the House of Commons in 2009 by Minister Strahl. I had the experience of serving 14 INAC Minsters over a 28 year period under contract and he was the finest of them all - supportive, ready to take my fights to Cabinet committees and there when I needed him the most, whether a success or failure.

The photo shows him seated with then TFN Chief Kim Baird and then BC Aboriginal Relations minister Mike DeJong. I am standing behind my Minister.

Working with him was one of the highlights of my working career and his efforts and commitment in that portfolio improved the lives of so many of our First Nation people in Canada.

My deepest condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed by so many and remembered fondly also by my land claim colleagues who had the honor of working with him.

Our deepest condolences to the Strahl family.  My parents moved to Chilliwack to log with the Strahl's in the early 70's.  My dad (Bob Coulling) had such admiration for Chuck and the family.  Although time had passed, after Cheam Construction stopped logging, Chuck, Gary and Stan visited my dad when he was in hospice in 1998, and Chuck honored my dad at his service.  Chuck was a kind, gentle man and he has left a legacy.  

Wayne and Geraldine Dyble

My sincere condolences to the Strahl family and friends.

I will always treasure the memory of the three years I worked closely with Chuck Strahl as his Deputy Minister. He was an effective Cabinet Minister who made a difference but what everyone recalls from that time is his warmth, humour and fundamental decency.

So sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing.  Condolences to his family and friends💔

I am so very saddened by the passing of Mr. Chuck Strahl.   I knew Chuck while I was working at the Reform Party of Canada's National Office in Calgary, when Chuck became a candidate for the Party and continued on to his election as a Member of Parliament under the Leadership of Mr. Preston Manning. 

Chuck was a gentleman, respectful and professional.   He was well respected by the hierarchy of the Reform Party as well as his peers in the House.    Chuck's leadership was sincere and strong;  he always had a smile and a good word to say no matter what your position was within the Party. 

Chuck was one of our finest politicians and I send my deepest condolences to his spouse and family.    You did great work Chuck and you will be well remembered by many especially myself. 

Marie Knowles

Dear Karina and Stahl family,
We remember your Dad with fondness. He was an exemplar of what a politician should be. He was honest, forthright and principled.
Like me, he was hard of hearing. I remember being in restaurant with him and Debby. He confided in me that when it came to ordering, he always stood close beside her so that he could use her as a sounding board in case he could not understand.
Our condolence to the family.
Alvin and Irere Ens

Heartfelt condolences to Deb and the family.  My fondest memory of Chuck is when he brought his chainsaw into my classroom and told my class about logging.  He started up the chainsaw and had everyone’s attention immediately.

My heartfelt condolences to the Strahl family. 
As a House of Commons official, I had the privilege and pleasure of working with Chuck Strahl. He was a lovely man. Courteous, committed and very hardworking, he embodied the highest standards of public service. 
Chuck was a great Canadian. He will be greatly missed.
Audrey O’Brien, CM, Clerk Emeritus, House of Commons

I pray that God will give you, Debbie and family comfort and strength as you mourn the loss of Chuck.  He left a wonderful legacy for you all.  God bless you during this difficult time.
I well remember when Dave passed away that Chuck  was there to support us as a family on the day of celebration of life.

My condolences to the Strahl family.  I had the pleasure of meeting Minister Strahl in Ottawa when he was Minister of Transport and I was in the aviation industry.  He had a great interpersonal style about him, knew his stuff and was very pragmatic.  He enjoyed chatting about his airplane on floats which he flew throughout the Fraser River Valley while conducting business.  May God bless his soul and the Strahl family.

Sam Barone
Vancouver, BC

OBITUARY

Charles (Chuck) Richard Strahl

25 February, 1957 – 13 August, 2024

Woodlawn Mt. Cheam Funeral Home

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