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Christopher Robert Chiarelli
September 4, 1964 - May 5, 2012
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<div itemprop="description"> <p> Christopher Robert Chiarelli </p> <p> September 4, 1964 &ndash; May 5, 2012 </p> <p> Passed away at home surrounded by his loving family.&nbsp; Son of Bob Chiarelli (step-mother Randi Hansen) and Susan Chiarelli (step-father Ron Gould). </p> <p> Chris was a child to make any parent glow with pride, a student to make a teacher revel, or a stranger laugh with one of his at-the-ready endless bank of jokes. He was a loving and thoughtful uncle to Lena, Colin, Chelsea, Marika, Quinten and Jesse, a caring brother and son, and a loyal friend. </p> <p> An Ontario Scholar in High School, Chris excelled academically and was on the Dean&rsquo;s list every year as a&nbsp; chemistry student at the University of Waterloo, where he was also well-regarded at numerous work terms including at Health Canada, Pinawa Atomic Energy facility and pharmaceutical companies Torcan and Wampole. </p> <p> His life changed dramatically several weeks before he graduated when he was diagnosed with schizophrenia, changing his life forever. </p> <p> He negotiated through a minefield of medications and challenges, but by strong character and a deep belief in God he struggled and found wisdom where there was chaos, humour where there was boredom, courage where there was fear, determination where there was doubt. He never asked, and what he had, he gave or shared; every day was a challenge that Chris overcame with grace. Above all, Chris was a flower by the sea, a sparkle in the darkness, an Olympian swimming against the tide. </p> <p> Seven months ago, Chris was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, which ultimately took his life; and with this battle, he never wavered, but lost, expressly stating he was going to a better place. At his request his eyes were donated for transplant. </p> <p> Chris will be remembered simply because he is unforgettable. </p> <p> Chris was predeceased by his step-mother Carol (Paquette) Chiarelli and survived by siblings Lynn,&nbsp; Donna (and husband John Cormier) and Katie Chiarelli,&nbsp; Andrea Desgroseilliers, Michelle&nbsp; Hotchin (and husband Adam), Steven Gould and Lisa Kelih, by nieces and nephews, and by many cousins, uncles and aunts, especially his attentive Aunt Marcia. </p> <p> Chris asked to extend sincere gratitude to all of his medical professionals and care givers over 25 years of intensive requirements. Donations may be made in Chris&rsquo; name to Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health or to the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation.&nbsp; Private family visitation and funeral. </p> </div>