Deputy Chief Charles Harry Jennings

Charles was a loving husband and partner to his beloved wife Ruth, for over 68 years until her passing in August 2017. A caring father to his daughter Karen, son Bruce and son-in-law, Bruce Elliott. Predeceased by his sister, Shirley and her husband Frank Baker, and Ruth’s brother, sisters, and their spouses. Remembered as a loving uncle by his many nieces and nephews, and their children.

Charles retired, as Deputy Chief of the North York Fire Department in 1988, with 33 years service. During his career with the Fire Department, he worked in the firefighting division for the first three years, then fire prevention until becoming a Captain in 1962. He was promoted to District Chief in 1973 and then to Deputy Chief three years later. He enjoyed many lifelong friendships with his brothers in the Fire Department, as well as with colleagues in many other fire departments.

While a member of the North York Professional Fire Fighters Association, Charles held elected positions, published a newsletter for the membership, and sat on various committees. Shortly after retiring from the North York Fire Department, he along with a small group of fellow retirees founded the North York Retired Fire Fighters Association. Charles held the position of secretary on their executive committee for many years, as well as establishing and editing their association’s retiree newsletter for 25 years. During those years he was also a proud member of the Toronto Firefighters War Veterans Colour Guard and participated in many official events.

Charles will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his family and friends.

A visitation for Deputy Chief Charles Jennings will be held at Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes (8088 Yonge Street, Thornhill,) on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 9:30 AM. A celebration of life will follow at 10:30 AM. A reception will following the celebration of life from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM. A private burial will be taking place the following day.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kanejerrett-thornhill.ca for the Jennings family.