(Chilliwack-Hope MP Mark Strahl) – Statement from the Strahl Family on the Passing of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, P.C.
It is with great sadness and broken hearts that we share the news of the passing of our Dad, Chuck Strahl on August 13, 2024 in Chilliwack, BC after a courageous and exemplary battle with mesothelioma.
Born to Bill and Martha Strahl on February 25, 1957 in New Westminster, BC, Dad grew up in a logging family. They moved around rural BC in his early years, eventually settling in the community of Ryder Lake in Chilliwack when he was 10 years old, where Dad met the love of his life, Debby Bateman. They were married in 1975, and their relationship was a beautiful example of love, honour, commitment and companionship for nearly 50 years. Dad loved Mom with all his heart, and he made sure that his kids and everyone he met in his life knew it and saw it. They perfectly complimented each other and were hopelessly devoted to one another. They were blessed with four children: Karina, Mark, Loni and Kyla, who in turn blessed Mom and Dad with 13 grandchildren. Dad was so proud of his wife, children, their spouses, and his grandchildren and considered them his greatest joy and legacy.
Dad’s deep and abiding Christian faith was at the heart of who he was. He and Mom were members of the Chilliwack Alliance Church, where they grew in their faith together and served in many different leadership roles. Dad lived out his values in every aspect of his life, and was known for his honour, integrity and faithfulness to all those who knew him.
In 1993, Dad changed careers, running for public office and becoming a legislator after many years in the family logging business. He was elected as a federal Member of Parliament in six consecutive elections, serving the people of Chilliwack and the surrounding area for 18 years. He was a gifted communicator and leader. He served in a variety of prominent positions and was appointed to Cabinet in 2006, where he served in the roles of Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs and Minister of Transport until his retirement from politics in 2011. While he was a very successful politician with many accomplishments during his time in office, he didn’t let his job define who he was. He never lost sight of what was truly important: his faith, his family and his friends.
Our loss is deep and profound. Our Dad was our best friend, our greatest defender, our biggest promoter and our rock. We will share more details on his celebration of life in the days ahead and thank you for all of the love and sympathy that has already been shared.
Sincerely,
Karina, Mark, Loni and Kyla
Former Chilliwack Mayor Sharon Gaetz: Chuck Strahl – oh how we will miss you. You epitomize everything that is good about our community. You worked so hard keep Canada strong. You loved your family and your friends. Chuck you made us laugh as you regaled us with stories in your deep, rich voice. And you made us think as you stood up in Parliament to debate the issues of the day. You showed up at community events and I watched you as you listened to people who wanted to chat with you. I love the way that you made people feel valued. To live what you believe is the mark of an honest person. And you did just that. I looked up to you. Heck…we all did. Rest in peace my friend. Rise in glory. I know that God welcomed you home with the words we all want to hear “Well done, my good and faithful servant”. Much love to Deb and the family you left behind.
Former Chilliwack Mayor Clint Hames:
Joining the hundreds of folks mourning the loss of Chuck Strahl. His political accomplishments will long be celebrated and remembered. I could spend the rest of the day extolling his contributions to our community while I had the pleasure of serving as Mayor, however, one stands out and highlights, to me, the respect he garnered as an MP. Shortly after being elected Mayor, I sent a message to Chuck’s office in Ottawa to see if he could arrange meetings with folks responsible for allowing the redevelopment of the former CFB Chilliwack. Following its closure, there seemed to be endless delays in allowing the transfer to Canada Lands Company to allow the property to develop its economic potential. I wasn’t particularly hopeful as there was a Liberal government in power and Chuck was in opposition. Not 3 days passed and I was informed I had meetings with the President of the Treasury Board, The Minister of National Defence and the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs. To a person, each praised Chuck and his ability to work “across the aisle” on his constituents behalf. The Minister of National Defence said, “Chilliwack is lucky to have Chuck. While we may disagree, from time to time on policy, he is one of the most liked and hardest working MP’s on the hill.” Garrison Crossing, the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve and the Canada Education Park stand as a testament to his work.
Many may also not know my favourite side of Chuck. I first met Chuck when he was in Rosedale High School and he had a lead role in their production of Bye Bye Birdie. Our theatrical connection would re-emerge in 1980 when Chuck, and his wife Deb, appeared in the Chilliwack Players Guild production of “Fiddler on the Roof”. Chuck’s portrayal of “Perchick” and his beautiful voice set many a young girls hearts a-flutter. Chuck and Deb would go on to appear in many other Guild shows, especially if there was music involved.
His political career, and his life, were anchored in his honesty and his integrity. We had differences, but they never interfered with our friendship or our ability to get things done. If politics today could only be driven by the same values that Chuck held, oh what a country we’d have.
From Abbotsford School Trustee Shirley Wilson: Chuck was a kind and thoughtful man. I had the privilege of having a few chats with him over the years. He brought good things to the Fraser Valley, he served well. Condolences @markstrahl and to your family.
