Christopher Richard Austin

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Christopher Richard Austin on September 5th, 2022, at the age of 59 years following a lengthy battle with cancer. He defied all expectations, facing each new treatment with hope, courage, and determination to live life to the fullest.

Chris was surrounded to the very end by family, and will be lovingly remembered by his three beautiful, brave and precious children Hayden, Isobel and Madeleine; his parents Reeta Boivin and Richard (Liz) Austin; his siblings Victoria (Todd) Orr, Sara (Al) Austin and Andy (Misty) Austin; his nieces and nephews Cameron, Simon, Felix and Juniper; his co-parents Laura Petkau and Janette Bishop; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

Chris had the heart of a lion. He had a passion for music, with an album and t-shirt collection from all his favourite artists spanning decades. He was deeply committed to walking a path of truth and reconciliation. His smile lit up any room he entered. He spread joy and compassion wherever he went. Most of all, he loved his family.

A private memorial will be held on September 18th at the family’s request. A Celebration of Life for extended family and friends will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Chris’s honour to:

The Indian Residential School Survivors Society (www.irsss.ca/donate) or

The Royal Jubilee Hospital Cancer Centre (www.victoriahf.ca/donaterjh)

The family wishes to send a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff at the Royal Jubilee Hospital Cancer Centre for their care and compassion, and wishes to thank family and friends near and far for their love and support.