FOOT, CHRISTOPHER February 7, 1940-October 10, 2018 With great sadness the family of Chris Foot announces his passing at the age of 78 on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at Sunnybrook Hospital, surrounded by his wife and two daughters. Chris was son of the late Alan and Eldred (Plaxton) Foot. Predeceased by sister Barbara Quinn, and brothers Doug and Gordie. He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years Sue (Elizabeth) (nee Lynn), his daughters Erin (Jan Sorhaug) and Angie (Enzo Del Bianco) and his cherished grandchildren Finn, Liv and Lars Sorhaug. Lovingly remembered by brothers-in-law Paul Quinn and William Lynn (Margaret), cousins, nieces and nephews. Born in Toronto, Chris grew up on Toronto Island where he met his lifelong friend Eric Johnstone (Ellen).
He spent summers sailing at the RCYC and winters crashing through the harbour ice on the Ned Hanlon to reach Jarvis Collegiate on the mainland. Chris’ first career was with the Royal Canadian Navy. As a natural explorer and lover of open water, the Navy seemed a beautiful fit. But a Navy vessel is no sailboat and soon Chris learned the meaning of sea-sickness and chose a different path. After graduating from McMaster University, and a brief stint as an editor at MacLean-Hunter, Chris found his calling in teaching. He captured his elementary school students’ hearts and minds for 30 years with his bottomless imagination and quirky sense of humour, his love of singing and the ukulele and a devout belief that to be a great educator, you need to think outside of the box. With his strong intuition and empathy, Chris connected deeply with his students and colleagues. As a dynamic storyteller, Chris had his audiences in stitches and unbeknownst to most, the stories were often true! He was gifted with a unique mastery of etymology and an ability to absorb and develop far-ranging interests. He was a magical ukulele player, inspiring students and fellow musicians with his enthusiasm and was a dedicated member of Corktown UkeJam.
Chris and Sue married in 1967 and settled in Richmond Hill for 43 years. They were devoted members of Richmond Hill United Church. Together, Chris and Sue became part of the community sharing wonderful times at the Mill Pond, the theatre and other activities with many dear friends. That was home, before moving recently to Mid-town Toronto. Chris adored his Sweet Susie, wife and apple of his eye of 51 years. And Sweet Susie adored Chris. He will be greatly missed.
A Celebration of Life service to be held at Jubilee United Church on Saturday, October 20th 2-6 p.m. Service at 2 p.m., reception following. 40 Underhill Drive, Toronto. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CAMH Foundation (mental health), and Doane Uschool (ukulele) supporting accessible musical education for children. www.uschool.ca/support Condolences welcomed at www.forevermissed.com/chris-foot