Brown, Charles Wessels
Charles Wessels Brown
01 Jan 1925 – 10 Jun 2025
‘Uncle C’ had 36,685 days of loving and being loved in this world and felt blessed for the people in his life for each of those days. Pneumonia is often called the ‘friend of the elderly’, and Charlie would agree having had a most peaceful sendoff on June, 10th, 2025. Charlie was ‘Made in China’ to Missionary Scientists, lived in Chatham, Toronto, London (Ontario), Glasgow (Scotland) and finally in Paris (Ontario). While founding and building the highly respected law firm of Brown, Beatty, O’Donovan, Dillon, King and Hutton in London, Ontario, he was compelled to lend his time and talents to many worthy organizations over the years. The London Little Theatre that grew to be The Grand Theatre was a particularly proud venture for him. ‘The Arts are crucial to society’, he often said. He was devoted to Crossroads International which took him to Uganda in the 1960s deepening his sense of duty, compassion and conviction which he freely shared in all aspects of life. He was an ardent advocate, ambassador and overt recruiter of young people looking to make an impact on this world through CCI. The United Church of Canada is where he rested his mind, sang badly and just listened.
At 100 years old, he has been predeceased by most everyone that formed or nourished his life. But, he was always able to create never-ending family firm bonds. Charlie leaves behind 4 nephews and 4 nieces and all their children and grandchildren, and a few ‘honourary’ nieces and nephews. All of whom he cherished as individuals. His heart was big enough to include both his biological and his logical families together. Becky, Bob, The Browns, Cindy, David, Debbie, Frank, The Graham Girls, The Joyners, Kate, Ken, The Markhams, Mary, Millie, Neil, Nicholas, Willie and Yinka were all especially dear to Charlie and he made sure each knew they were loved by him for being themselves and no other reason.
There are no funeral or burial arrangements, because, as Charlie said, ‘I can’t go to anymore funerals.’ Please honour him in anyway you see fitting. And go see a play, a concert, the ballet. He’ll join you there.
May 27 Charlie and Walter
Our precious last visit in Paris. Charlie, alert and charming as always.
A beautiful tribute to a beautiful life ❤️
Thanks for doing this Nick; Charles was very special to a lot of people, Pat and I included
Michael Loebac
Beautifully written Nick! Uncle Charles was such a special and inspiring person to so many people. I will remember him fondly and aspire to live such a long and vibrant life as he did. Sending love. Xo
Nick, what a beautiful tribute to Uncle Charles! You captured who he was and all the love and support he gave to so many people throughout his long life. Charles was an import part of the Joyner family life. Thanks and sending love.
Alex