Ian William Challis

In Loving Memory of Ian Challis

Ian William Challis, born in Manchester, England on July 8, 1944, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 14, 2025, just under a month shy of his 81st birthday.

Ian, our beloved G-dad, will be remembered and deeply missed by his son (Stephen), his granddaughters (Samantha, Shelby) and grandsons (Yann, Matthew), among the countless close friends and neighbors whose friendships he so cherished.

Ian was a character, to say the least. Having lived a unique and full life, traveling to nearly every country in the world as a sound technician for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Through his many travels he collected so many interesting stories and memories that he was all too eager to share with his loved ones and beloved friends. From meeting the Dalai Lama while working on the CBC’s Struggle for Democracy documentary, to working with David Suzuki on the Nature of Things, his life was a treasure trove of incredible experiences and often hilarious anecdotes.

Ian was a lover of nature, where you would often find him in Edwards Gardens, relaxing in the sun or trying to save a racoon whose paw got stuck in a pop can (who he affectionately referred to as Hop-along). He also loved his orchids and if you were lucky, he would be excited to tell you his secret watering technique. Ian was always out and about working on his many tasks, which he would refer to as his “bits and pieces,” and enjoyed having a meal…or as he would refer to it a “snack” with his family/friends, at any one of his long lists of hidden gems across the city (Swatows #27, if you know you know!)

A celebration of life gathering will be held on Saturday August 2, 2025, starting at 2pm-late, at 525 Wilson Ave, in the multipurpose room on the main floor. The gathering is open to all who knew and loved Ian. Any questions, please connect with Shelby or Samantha at shelby.challis@gmail.com, or samanthaleighchallis@gmail.com

Only one thing left to do now, sign off classic Ian style, All My Love, Ian Xoxo