This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Thomas McGaw, beloved husband, father, grandad, father-in-law, brother, uncle and friend, on January 17, 2026 in Cobourg, Ontario. Chuck was 82 years old.
Chuck was married to the love of his life, Linda (née Goldring) for 60 years. Together, they shared a bond that began when they met at 16 and grew into a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. They married on September 9, 1966, and built a beautiful life together.
Chuck was the proud father of Elizabeth/Buffy McGaw (Chris Elias) and Jody Kennelly (Tim Kennelly), and cherished grandad to Grant, Bryce, Conor, and Emma.
Chuck was also a loving brother to Jane Jones, the late Judy Lind and the late Peter McGaw as well as brother-in-law to Doctor Geoff Davis and the late Janet Davis.
Born and raised in North Toronto, Chuck attended York Mills Collegiate before continuing his education at the University of Toronto and later, York University, where he studied computer science. He dedicated over 30 years of his career to IBM, where his work ethic and innovation left a lasting impact.
Chuck formed many lasting friendships in high school that remained an important part of his life. He was also a lifelong friend to his dear cousins Tom Heyes and the late Don McQuigge, and later shared a close friendship with the late Bob McKenzie.
In retirement, Chuck and Linda found their perfect haven in The Kawartha Lakes, later settling in Cobourg, Ontario. The years spent at their homes were filled with warmth and hospitality, from cozy visits by the lake to lively gatherings in their homes in Toronto. Chuck’s love for the outdoors was matched by his enthusiasm for fishing at the French River, cottaging, canoe trips and playing golf.
As a grandad, Chuck’s love for his grandchildren was limitless. The joy he felt around them was unmistakable, and the bonds they shared will be treasured forever. He will also be remembered fondly by many nephews and nieces as their jolly uncle Chuck.
Chuck was the ultimate handyman, always ready to lend a hand with tools in tow, eager to find a solution to any challenge. His patience and creativity were boundless, and he was loved by all who knew him.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the incredible caregivers at The Golden Plough Lodge in Cobourg for the compassionate and dedicated care they provided to Chuck during his final years. Their kindness and attention made a difficult time more bearable, and we are truly grateful for their support.
A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, we ask that a donation be made to the Alzheimer Society.
We are so very sorry Linda, Buffy, and Jody about the passing of your loving husband and father. We can only imagine how difficult this is for all of you and you are in our thoughts. Love, Patryk, Brooke, and Cassidy
My sincere condolences.
Linda, sending loving condolences to you and your family. May you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you made together.
My deepest condolences to Buffy and the McGaw family on your loss.
Im so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with your entire family.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Alzheimer Society
Buffy, Chris, Bryce, and Grant, My heart and prayers go out to you as you grieve the loss of your dad/grandfather. If I can support you in any way, let me know. 💫 Heather
Dear Aunt Linda, Buffy and Jody spouses, grandchildren, extended family and many friends. I was very upset to get the call this week that Uncle Chuck had passed. I have many fond memories of parties and get togethers on Melrose. I admired Chuck's handyman ways and feel I've followed along his path that way myself. I don't think I ever recalled a time growing up where Uncle Chuck didnt have a quick smile and happy chuckle, and right there was Linda also with a smile and laugh. Your relationship was an inspiration. I know the last few years have been difficult. But Linda you have stood by and been the most loyal life partner anyone could ask for. I am sure he would have done the same. I'm so grateful all the family was able to come together for Christmas. I look forward to coming together to celebrate a wonderful son, man, sibling, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend. RIP Chuck.
Sending my sincere condolences to Linda and family on your loss of Chuck!!! May you find comfort in your wonderful memories!! RIP Chuck
Such heartwarming memories fill our thoughts. Deepest condolences to all.
Oh Cousin Linda- my heartfelt thoughts are with you across the miles today. Lovingly Sue xxxxxx
Our sincere condolences. We certainly remember the enjoyable evenings spent at Chuck and Linda’s home on D’Arcy. Chuck very kindly drove Fran and her sister to the train station when they couldn’t get a taxi and, at the time, he didn’t even know us. What a kind man!
I have so many warm, vivid memories of Chuck from our days at Mi‑a‑kon‑da. Even now, I can still picture the way he carried himself—with that easy smile, that gentle humour, and that quiet steadiness that made everyone around him feel at ease. Over the years, he and Linda welcomed me into their home and their hearts in a way that always made me feel like family. Chuck wasn’t just a wonderful man; he was the kind of person whose presence genuinely made the world softer and kinder. Knowing him shaped me in ways I’m only now fully appreciating. I feel truly honoured to have been part of his life, and his absence will be felt deeply. He will be missed, and he will be remembered—with love.
My sincere condolences to the entire family, and in particular to Chuck’s daughter Buffy…my friend and former colleague. You are all in my heart and in my thoughts. With sympathy and kindness, Inga.
We're thinking of you at this time and remembering all the good times we had together, especially those competitive bridge nights.
It is sad to say goodbye to my uncle whom I have so many fond memories of. Uncle Chuck made every Sunday I visited, feel like home — cheering through football games, pipe in hand, surrounded by the laughter and chaos of the kids he welcomed without a hint of complaint. I will always cherish the fond memories I have of him. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone during this difficult time.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Alzheimer Society
Thank you for being such a wonderful neighbour. I will always treasure the times sitting on your patio enjoying a chat and cocktail with you and Linda. You’ll always be remembered with a smile.
So sorry for your loss. Our condolences to you and your family
Gary and I are saddened by the loss of such a vibrant member of the former "Melrose Gang". Our hearts are with Linda, who has been his tireless and loving caregiver for the past few years, as well as his perennial side-kick, through their long life together.
We are so saddened to hear of Charlie’s passing. He and Linda have been life long friends, having shared much time together. Charlie was a special person, one of the good guys.He will be missed very much by so many. He and Linda shared a special love for many years - hopefully that will help Linda during this difficult time. Our condolences to Linda, Jody and Buffy and the rest of the family. With our love, June & David Coe
Linda and family I was sad to hear of his passing.He was a wonderful friend and neighbour He will be missed by all who knew him.