Posted in LarseEncore

Association of Retired School Employees

ROBERT CHARTRAND February 8, 1950 – September 3, 2016

Saturday morning, September 3, 2016, our dear friend and colleague, Bob Chartrand, died tragically in a plane crash off the coast of Florida. He was 66 years old. The Cessna crashed into the ocean near Dania Beach just 200 yards off shore. Bob was not flying the plane; a friend of his was at the controls. They flew out of Pompano Beach and were headed to the Florida Keys, when they were caught in an unforeseen storm.

Bob, originally from the town of Ormstown, Quebec, moved to LaSalle, Quebec, when he started teaching. He enjoyed a wonderful 34 year career as an excellent physical education teacher at LaSalle Catholic Comprehensive High School (as it was known then). He had a special affinity for his class of special education students, throwing a Christmas Party for them every year, and bringing his lovable dog "Charlie" (a cocker spaniel) to the class once or twice a week.

He was a very generous, soft-spoken, sensitive, spiritual and warm hearted person. Outgoing and sociable, he made easy connections. He enjoyed hockey and played in the teachers' hockey game every Thursday evening. In retirement, he played with the "Old Timer's" hockey league, both at home and at his winter home in Florida. He was an avid cyclist with the "Carravelo" group, and with them, participated in a cycling tour of Switzerland.

Bob was always active and thoughtful of others. He had a wonderful sense of humor and would write a humorous report about events at the teachers' weekly hockey game. This earned him the nickname "Red Fish" and he began posting his bulletin in the staff room. As "Red Fish", he was a leader who organized and gathered the staff of LCCHS for many years, and in more recent years, its retirees. One cannot forget his annual "Red Fish" awards at the end of each school year, where he presented awards to the teachers, support and administrative staff of his beloved LCCHS.

Ever the free spirit, Bob believed in living life to the fullest, and in retirement, fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. He will be greatly missed by the LCCHS community, as he was instrumental in organizing annual reunions and keeping all present and former staff connected and informed.

He touched the lives of those he knew. We were blessed to share in his talent and friendship. Hopefully, all who knew Bob will continue his legacy by showing kindness and respect for others. His spirit is a part of us who knew him. We offer our heartfelt condolences to Bob's family and loved ones.

Sonia Stante, Konrad Muncs, Roman Kostyk

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth, And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; John Gillespie Magee, Jr

Also a note on Earle Howard