Charles Halam-Andres

I only just found out and I am heartbroken. When I started in this business I looked up to one person and that was Charles. There was no reason for him to be generous with me yet he was. Seeing his brilliance set a bar for me to attain and seeing his kindness made me want to help people in turn. My sincere condolences.

Charlese was my imaginary companion. Whenever I would see or hear or read something that engaged my interest, I would very often metaphorically turn to Charles and ask him what he thought about it. I didn't always expect him to agree. Given that his presence was imaginary, but still very real to me, I suppose I can continue to do this but it isn't really the same is it. Still, to be honest, I haven't stopped doing and will not abandon my imaginary companion. I extend my condolences to Charles' loved ones for their loss, and to all of us as well. Words fail me. Mike

Dear Betty, Paige & Nick,
So hard to believe that Charles is gone; way too fast and way too early.
I have so many wonderful memories of Charles over the last 40 years.
Many fun filled dinners and parties at your Buckingham and Wellington
homes with Charles as the impeccable host. Lots of downtown dinners with the four of us sharing wine, travel tales and political discussions.
But one of my favourite memories of Charles goes back over 30 years ago when you were living in the east end of Toronto. I happened to be over at your home while Charles was bathing a very young Paige.
We were all new parents at the same time, learning the ropes. I remember Charles being so joyful and tender in that moment. And Nick, he was the same way with you. So incredibly proud of you two.
And Betty, what can I say about your romantic husband and your true life partner? Watching you two grow together over the years juggling children and careers. Charles was always there, a constant and steady hand.
I am so truly sorry for your loss. Such a cliched expression that really doesn’t do justice to the sadness of Charles’ passing.
Sending big hugs your way.

Pat Cherrie

Dear Betty, Paige and Nic,

Charles was a delightful man, consistently warm and friendly whenever I interacted with him. Every encounter revealed his wealth of knowledge spanning finance, risk, food, and travel. I fondly recall sharing a memorable evening with him at your lovely home, discussing and drinking wine. Please accept my deepest condolences during this challenging time, and may his memory bring you comfort and solace.

Hormuz

Dear Betty, Paige, and Nick,

Charles was a brilliant man whose insatiable appetite for knowledge, rhetoric, and wine, was only surpassed by his devotion and love for the three of you.

It's impossible to not see the impact he made during his life, reading through these notes, and seeing it in your lives everyday.

Keeping you in my thoughts.

I am proud to have worked with Charles at DBRS Morningstar in the last phase of his long and distinguished financial career before retirement. Even before he joined DBRS, I had the pleasure of dealing with him at Scotiabank and even at CIT. Through all his roles, he was consistently a gentleman, with integrity, intelligence and class. As managers at DBRS for our respective teams, we shared advice, knowledge, experience and laughs in our daily efforts to keep our parts of the corporate rating operations going. He had a wonderfully sensible view of the world, knowing what battles to fight, when it didn't really matter, and when to call things out when they really were truly silly. I always appreciated his insight and support. I'll miss his camaraderie and his presence.

Dear Betty, Paige, Nick and Elsie,

I was heartbroken when I heard about Charles' diagnosis. Even more so when I heard about his passing shortly after.

Although Nick and I have grown apart over the last few years, he was one of my closest friends in high school. I spent countless hours at his house to the point that I considered it a home away from home. This was largely due to Betty and Charles being so open and welcoming to me.

Although I didn't know Charles as well as I would have liked, I did know that he was an incredibly intelligent, passionate, humble, and thoughtful individual. His vast knowledge across a wide array of topics continually amazed me. Whether discussing business, politics, economics, wine, or other complex fields, Charles was informed and always had a well-thought-out opinion.

Every chance I had to speak with him, it felt like I walked away learning something new or with a different perspective. Charles had an innate ability to articulate his thoughts in a way that anyone could understand, regardless of the complexity.

Charles will be missed dearly but his shared wisdom and love will live on with all of us.

Sending lots of love,

It has been so nice to read all of the notes people have shared about Charles. Former classmates; colleagues; fellow expats; and many friends - all people who had the good fortune to be connected, in one way or another, with this fine man. The stories have made me smile, whether about Charles checking the dictionary, verbally parrying "emotional challenges", or playing badminton which, of course, he was also good at!

I only knew Charles for about half a dozen years. Not long, in the grand scheme of things, but I find it hard to remember what life was like BC (before Charles). At first, he was my boss at DBRS, if that matters, and what I remember from those days was someone who gave me time and space to do my best work. Sure, he guided and taught, but always in the subtlest and most modest of ways. One of my favourite recollections of Charles at work was, sitting around a table or on a Zoom call, when the rest of us had said our piece, Charles, relatively new to our team, would chime in with something along the lines of, "Look, I don't understand all of this as well as you folks, but..." and that's when we would all learn something. I also recall the comfort he indirectly offered to the rest of us when we were frustrated by a work process or system, and EVEN Charles couldn't reconcile why things were so. "I shake my head", he used to say, while actually shaking his head! He was extremely well respected at work, and nobody wanted him to retire.

I was lucky enough to get to know Charles outside of work as well. My wife Dina and I were fortunate enough to enjoy Betty and Charles' wonderful hospitality. Charles was also an excellent companion for socializing on his own! He was engaging, joyful, and always seemed at ease, regardless of the setting, occasion, or the cast of characters, no matter how motley. I won't remember everything he shared about wines, but I will remember every book recommendation, as I have saved each title. A gift that will keep on giving.

I recall our first time out after work, when he just casually dropped into the conversation that he was working his way through Marcus Aurelius' Meditations (again, I think), which sat on his nightstand. I thought to myself, "Is this guy for real?". After some time I realized that yes, yes he was.

Betty, Paige, and Nick, our deepest condolences.

Tim, Dina, Oliver, and Clive O'Brien

Babs and I can't quite believe what has happened and share this tremendous grief with the family and friends of Charles.
We all have a short-list of people in our lives who we feel are exceptional. In so many ways, Charles was one of those people. We all study and work in a field, but Charles had his choice of careers, whether in finance, law, art, wines, golf, horseback riding... I'm sure I've missed a few. And he was excellent at all of them!
A few people have mentioned Charles' exceptional intellect and his dry humour, which were a deadly combination. I can see that boyish grin now, when he was busy stirring some conversational pot. You could disagree with Charles, and while he usually would not directly tell you that you were wrong, by the time he finished explaining his point of view, you were left rethinking your position in some way, if not completely.
Charles and I played in a golf tournament at our cottage in Metis. On a tough, elevated par-3, myself and our two opponents all watched our balls sail into the woods, riding on a huge wind. Charles stood up and said that he would draw the ball into the wind and land it beside the cup. It's a shot the pros would have a difficult time with. But of course Charles did exactly what he said he would. Being exceptional was normal for him.
Betty, Paige and Nick; Babs and I look back on so many dinners and visits with such fond memories and feel so fortunate to have had Charles in our lives, even if for a shorter-than-expected amount of time. With love.

Charles' untimely death is a bitter pill to swallow and fills me with sadness. I collaborated with him during our many years together at Newcourt Capital/CIT. Charles was ever the trusted advisor and cheerful colleague. During my time there, I owned two copies of the Random House dictionary, a massive tome and the best single-volume English dictionary that I have ever come across. I kept one copy at home and the other copy at work, open, on the credenza behind my desk. Charles would frequently drop by to consult it (the internet was then still in its infancy). He needed to check some spelling or make sure that the word he was thinking of was the correct one - In short, he wanted to get things right! That was Charles. After I departed CIT, I was now stuck with two copies of the dictionary at home and needed to do a bit of housecleaning. I immediately thought of Charles and contacted him at DBRS, where he was now employed, to ask if he'd like to have one of them. He readily agreed. We met downtown and I handed over to him one of the dictionaries, secure in the knowledge that it had gone to a "good home", where it would be appreciated and put to good use. When I think of him, I will always picture him standing next to my desk, consulting that book, making sure that the words he was using were the correct ones. Deepest condolences to his family.

Dear Betty and family;
I was absolutely heartbroken to hear this news. What a tragedy and so sudden. Charles was absolutely the picture of health. How could this be? It's unbelievable.
I fondly remember your wedding and the way he looked at you so adoringly. This was a perfect match as many people have said. And you had a full retirement ahead of you. I shake my head.
This photo is exactly how I remember Charles. That big smile and such a sunny disposition.....a great sense of humour and whip smart. A wonderful eye for art. While, we have had our political debates with each of us coming from opposite ends of the spectrum, he was thoughtful and considerate.
I'm sure you have this photo that I found in my archives but thought I would post it here too.
I lost my Dad in April and my Mom in July and while they were ready, it is still a shock and difficult to process in such a short time. I can't imagine how it is for you. My most heartfelt sympathies. Sending love, Yvonne

Charles was a friend of mine for close to forty years. An interesting trait which stood out for me was the focused intention he had when interested in something. This was never more evident than when he decided to pursue my dear, high school friend, Betty. I had a front row seat as he embraced this quest because Betty and I lived in the same small apartment building. I came across them fairly often when they played cribbage in Davisville Park. Charles had a playful, mischievous streak when it came to my friend and he would not hesitate to display his glee when he beat her at the game. I rather thought that this behaviour ran counter intuitive to is goal of capturing her heart. Betty saw past these annoying impasses and saw what a unique, thoughtful, loving partner he could be. I shall deeply miss that tremendous smile which lit up his face and eyes. Kent and I cherish the memories of their visit to Nelson BC.
Kent, Desiree, Mckean and I send our deepest condolences to Betty and family.

Dear Betty, Paige and Nick, Jess and I were so sad to hear this tragic news, particularly at a time that Charles had 'finally' retired, and you were both enjoying exciting travel adventures and moving towards retirement dreams....

Charles and I met through work - initially when he was at Newcourt, and later Scotiabank. We faced each other over the boardroom table - he the lender, and I the borrower. However, while these scenarios could often turn contentious, Charles was always courteous and professional. Later, we kept in touch and became friends over numerous lunches, with wide ranging discussions on current events, philosophy and wine.

On the latter, I remember Charles and I sharing an enjoyable evening at a South African wine tasting - appropriately given his passion for wine and South African family roots. Also Jess and I meeting Betty, Nick and Paige - and sharing many fun filled dinner-party's at their home, with great conversations, and of course wine.

Charles was a true 'Renaissance Man' - he will be missed. Jess and I send love to Betty, Nick and Paige, and wish you the best in moving forward.

I had the pleasure of working with Charles for the past 4 years as he sat on the Board of Directors in a building I help manage.
He always had a kind word and a smile that warmed your heart.
My condolences go out to Betty and the rest of the family and friends at this time as the morn the loss of such a beautiful soul.
May you hold on to all the wonderful memories you have and let them be your strength as you navigate through the days ahead.
You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Dear Betty, Nick and Paige,

I’m so sorry that you find yourselves here without Charles far too soon.

Floating through your house over the years, I had many chances to experience Charles as a kind host welcoming us all, no matter how many teenage girls were taking over the house. He was somehow both youthful and a tad curmudgeonly, no nonsense and playful, all at once.

Spending time with any family, sometimes you get a sneak peek at their particular rhythms. One that I always enjoyed witnessing in your family went something like this. Betty or Paige would be telling a story or sharing some news. Charles - wearing a mischievous grin - would make some kind of slightly provocative clever comment on the state of the world, the characters involved, or what to tell them. Betty exclaiming “Charles!” would punctuate the conversation, and then as he (and we) chuckled, he often continued the debate, kicking off a great round of banter. I can’t remember the exact topic of any of these conversations, but I remember it happening so many times that I would come to expect when an exclamation of “Charles!” was coming.

I heard far more stories about Charles than I experienced directly myself, and I’ll miss hearing from Paige what his witty response was in each tale. Getting to debrief about all kinds of things for half our lifetimes, I often got to hear (and benefit from) Charles’ sound advice second hand. Being pals for long enough to see how each new situation played out, I can see a clear link from your shared wise advice as parents, and Charles’ supportive but direct style, to the adult my friend has grown up to be: confident, supportive, funny, capable, independent, successful, and principled. Paige, I know you’ll miss him as key advisor in all kinds of life negotiations. What a great and loving voice to have in your ear.

I’ll be thinking of you all as you find your way through this new chapter. Paige, I’m here to listen to stories about your awesome dad any time you want to tell them. Betty and Nick, sending you my love, and see you around someday.

Susan

My relationship with and memories of Charles go back many years, when he captured the heart of Betty, a dear childhood friend.
As we all pursued careers and started families there were many gatherings and dinners. Charles and Betty were extraordinary hosts. The food was always delicious and the conversation lively. Each of them capable of weaving a tremendous story. And of course, there was the wine. Prior to becoming a sommelier, Charles had a vast knowledge of wine and very particular tastes. I would dare to bring a bottle I felt was suitable, he would graciously accept it and with a smile, pull out his chosen pairing. (I dare say that my bottles may have casually been returned to the LCBO).
Charles possessed knowledge in so many areas; from law to economics, from art to music and was always willing to share his opinions and listen to that of others. I regularly learned from Charles. I will never forget our ongoing divergence of opinion on who was the better rock group, the Beatles or the Rolling Stones. If you knew Charles there was no question; the Rolling Stones were superior.
Despite all of his talents, Charles was a man of integrity; a devoted, husband and father and a true, caring friend. I so admired how he cherished Betty and showered her with lovely, carefully designed jewelery. (apparently lingerie too!) There wasn’t anything Charles wouldn’t do for his family. Betty, Paige, Nick and Elsie will miss him profoundly.
My partner Rick and I imagined many more years of adventures with Charles and Betty. That was not to be. Charles a man of wit, wisdom and kindness will never be forgotten. His legacy will be carried on by all those he touched in his lifetime.
I feel so blessed to have been numbered among his friends.
Love Jan

I have worked for many years in the building where Charles lived. Whenever we encountered each other, we spent time talking about various topics. I truly enjoyed those conversations and will always remember Charles because of them. He was always friendly, humble and his sense of humor was impeccable.

My deepest condolences to Betty and family.

Charles was one of my best friends. A friendship we founded during our careers. He and I have many things in common. We got there via different routes, but our views are always similar. He had provided me with great advice through the years, including career choices, major personal decisions, investments, taxes, wine, etc. I would often ask myself - what would Charles think? It was always great to share notes and thoughts even though we took different paths towards the end of our careers. Anne and I really looked forward to more adventures with Charles and Betty over the next twenty years. What a loss, it is hard for us to believe it has come to this and is truly very upsetting.

On a lighter note, I learned a song inspired by Charles but written by Tom Waits. I always think of Charles when I play it - reminds me of that time in San Miguel when two of us drained that mini bottle of Chivas Regal I bought at duty free in a house Anne and I rented on the wrong side of town.

Red Pants and the Sugarman in the Temple Street gloom
Drinking Chivas Regal in a four-dollar room
Just another dead soldier on a powder blue night
Sugerman says baby everything’s alright.

I remember the time when Newcourt was in the hunt for AT&T Capital. It was all top secret, and I was naiver than most. A stealth limo came to pick me up late on Sunday afternoon, going on an assignment I was not all that excited about and feeling a bit down - getting launched into some sort of D-Day mission. Once in the car, the driver said, "we have one other passenger to pick up - Charles". So, we drove to Charles’s place, and we picked him up. Charles got into the car and was his usual cheerful self. I thought, hey this might not be that bad after all. Anyway, that started another chapter for the two of us.

Like the limo ride, I truly hope and wish that we meet again. Until that time.

Charles was the best and will not be forgotten ever. Our deep regrets to the Betty, Paige, Nick and Elsie. We will keep in touch. Anne and Murray Eastwood.

I met Charles at law school in London in the mid 80's. During class we realized we both enjoyed badminton and played over at the University Centre. He was a courteous, self-deprecating, humorous player, yet highly skilled. A wonderful set of attributes for a recreational opponent. Years later, after meeting Betty and Paige and Nick, I was reminded of our badminton games. Reading through all of these tributes, I see that the lovely person Charles was in his twenties was the man he grew up to be and to model for his family. Our family sends their condolences to all of you.

Dear Betty, Paige, Nicolas and Elsie,

Many years ago, Betty and Charles met. In due course, they said their wedding vows in a beautiful garden. They embarked on a wonderful life together, which was soon to include Paige and Nicolas. I lived far away.. We were setting up homes, creating families and building careers in different places, yet we stayed in touch and shared the big events; the babies, the homes, the jobs, the 25th wedding anniversary, the retirements.. When my late husband was ill, Betty and Charles made the time to visit. Very often I would stay with you, and once my whole family was kindly put up! Charles and Betty always made us welcome.
Your family came to Nova Scotia on holiday and visited with us at the cottage we were renting. Lucky Charles was there because we needed some legal advice when it became clear that the house had been rented to another group as well.
Our last visit was last summer. Charles was reading about the early Minoans (I think) and of all things my son had suggested I read a book of the same topic! We had wonderful conversations about so many things over the years, and many laughs. .
I will cherish and be inspired by my memories of him.
love,
Nancy

Since I knew Betty first, I was impressed when I met Charles—a man who was her intellectual equal as well as the yin to her yang in so many personality aspects. Beyond his many accomplishments in business, his interest in art, and his dedication to fitness, what I enjoyed most about Charles was his impish smile and sense of humour.

Their marriage was full of love, respect, and generosity for each other as well as their friends. And of course, Charle's legacy will live on in his two great children, Paige and Nicholas. Much love to the whole family.

In thinking back over the years that I knew and worked with Charles, what stands out is how generous and kind he always was to me and those around him. It goes back to when we met for the first time. I was a brand-new articling student and was given an assignment which I had no idea where to begin. Someone suggested that I speak with Charles for help to get me started, which I did. He was exceedingly helpful and generous with his knowledge and time. A pattern that would repeat itself throughout my years working with him both at Gowlings and Newcourt/CIT.

Charles was without a doubt one of the smartest lawyers/people I have ever had the good fortune to work with over these many years. And despite being heads and tails more talented than most people in the room, myself included, he never used his intelligence or knowledge to make people feel smaller or less valued. Instead, he was patient and explained things in such a manner which allowed us lesser human beings to follow along. I learned so much from both his direct mentoring/teaching as well as watching him in action. I will never forget listening to Charles on his various negotiation calls, speaking with great patience and an easy manner to explain his position and/or the error in the other side’s position (more often the latter than the former). He could not have been more pleasant on the call, never letting any frustration or annoyance show. But I most fondly remember what he had to say after some of these more frustrating calls had concluded – he would look at the phone and express his thoughts using a very colourful phrase (having something to do with a bit of anatomy which would be useless on a bull). And as I was sitting close to Charles, I heard this expression a lot.

Charles was also always so generous to us as friends. Tom recalls how the business he provided his lumber company, on Charles' and Betty's renovations to one of their houses, was a significant boon to his business at the time. I remember how he provided us with his Aeroplan points so we could fly business class to China to get our first child– this added immeasurably to making our trip easier. I also remember the great times that we had with the Newcourt/CIT gang, playing golf, having drinks, etc. Charles was always great company in these social times. Tom and I remember our last dinner in their amazing (then new) home – he and Betty were always such gracious and warm hosts..

I will remember Charles for all that he did and contributed to our lives and my career, both big and small (too many to list here). I know I am a better leader because of him. I would like to believe I am a better lawyer (but this just might be wishful thinking on my part).

He was an amazing person, we feel very fortunate to have had the chance to know him and appreciate the wonderful impact he had on our lives. With our deepest sympathies, Peggy and Tom

My heartfelt condolences to you Betty and family. I am so happy knowing I played a part in planning and arranging so many wonderful trips for you and Chares over the past few years. May those fond, happy memories always bring smiles to you.
Sending you all my thoughts and prayers at this time.
Paul Chin-Aleong (New Wave/Direct Travel)

Paige and family,
I know you are all feeling an immense loss of such a caring and charismatic man. I know you are all encompassing his values as you navigate this difficult time with much heart and grace. Please know that how you have handled this unfortunate situation, stands as an inspiration and shall give others strength as we all inevitably deal with the cycle of life. Much love to you all, it’s clear your fathers impact will carry on through the rest of you and everyone he’s touched. xo

Dear Betty, Paige, Nick and Elsie, sending my heartfelt condolences.
I met Charles through Betty, fast dear friends when our kindergarten boys were becoming pals. After we moved from Toronto, Betty and Charles very generously hosted our family, in their beautiful home, on our return visits. We shared wonderful dinners, usually a barbecue, after Charles returned from his weekly grocery shop on the Danforth. And always with lively conversation and a carefully chosen bottle of wine from Charles’s expansive collection. It was very clear that Charles was so solid, a mensch, with remarkable integrity and was fully engaged in his many interests. Most remarkable was his devotion to Betty, Paige and Nick showed so openly.
Sending love
Jennifer

For the many years I worked with Betty, Charles was always a part of our chitchat and parties and get togethers. And I always remember he loved to buy Betty lingerie. And no one else’s husband or partner would even venture to buying lingerie . But Charles was good at it! And we would laugh about that because it was just so romantic..
I hope for all of you, the romance of Charles never leaves your heart.

My Day 1 at DBRS and here comes Charles asking for me, welcoming me with warmth and his amazing smile. That first meeting laid the foundation of a deep bond with Charles that only got stronger over the years. He had all the qualities of an amazing person, very kind, positive, thoughtful, intelligent, smiling, sensitive and empathetic. I am fortunate to have met Charles as my manager who became my friend, mentor, family and go-to in any scenario. Can never forget our conversations and time spent with him & his family.
I will miss Charles and pray for him. Sending condolences and courage to Betty, Paige, Nick and Elsie.
Sapan

To Betty and family,
I loved the paragraph about Charle’s “ a man of ideas”. I have a great memory of the group dinner where I was so envious of his debate expertise. I watched, enthralled ,by his thoughtful, reasoned, logical but , most amazingly to me ,rapid-fire responses to all the ‘emotional' challenges from all sides of the table to the principles he expressed .It was so impressive.That’s a guy with skills I wish I had.

Dear Paige and family,
We are so very sorry for your loss! We hope that your memories and the ones of his friends are a comfort to you at this time.
Sincerely,
Lynn and Jamey Hubbs

Unfortunately for me, I only knew Charles for a very short period of time. We met at the Rosewood pool in San Miguel and instantly bonded. We talked, we laughed , we shared our intentions and aspirations for the future. We exercised together, hiked to the botanical gardens and sat around the pool and discussed our life journeys and aspirations. We wined and dined and listened to the local artists playing their music. We enjoyed each other’s company along with Betty and Jean. Oh how I wish we could have had more time together. Rest in peace my friend.
Marty

Our condolences to Betty, Paige, Nick & Elsie. You have been our good friends for more than 25 years. We have so many fond memories of vacations together and dinners with good food, excellent wine and lively conversation. Charles’ intelligence, good nature and steadfastness always shone through. We will miss him dearly.

Debbie & Jeff

I was lucky to share time with Charles and Betty in Egypt last autumn. We all clicked immediately and enjoyed many conversations and laughter. I am greatly saddened that we won’t be able to travel all together again. Charles was a gentleman and left a kind imprint on the world.

My condolences to Betty, Paige, Nicholas and Elsie.
Charles and I are same vintage - Queen's Frosh and victims of Leonard Hall Caf in the same year.
Later we were work colleagues and friends.
He was wise. In the workplace, in action, he was calm under fire serenely repeating a negotiating point until the implacable weight of substance and courtesy caused opposition to melt away. Usually with good-humored sparkle. After work, as friend, his company and conversation made the day better. Dinner Chez Betty and Charles did the same.
I will miss him.
Best,
Bruce Ells

For several years, I knew Charles as just a good-looking, friendly Canadian with whom I would chat casually at the Rosewood Hotel gym in San Miguel de Allende. But more recently, I met Betty, took a walk with them up to El Charco, the botanical garden, and got to know him better. He was smart and funny and interesting, and when he and Betty invited me and my husband Joel to dinner earlier this year, we accepted readily. It was a magical evening in their courtyard, where Charles poured wine, grilled steaks and entertained us with wit and warmth. I think the invitation was for 6:00 – 10:00 PM. By the time we stumbled out at almost midnight, we all wondered where the time had gone, and Joel and I were eager to see Charles and Betty again.

It was not meant to be. A planned lunch had to be cancelled due to illness, and then we left San Miguel with enthusiastic promises to meet up there next winter. And so that memorable dinner was the last time we saw Charles. We miss him terribly.