Charles GRESLEY

CHARLES ERNEST BALFOUR LE GRESLEY April 7, 1929 - April 27, 2023 It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Balfour. Balfour passed away peacefully at his home in Toronto after a long, happy and productive life. He was predeceased by the love of his life, Hildegarde (Dr. Vierkoetter). Father to Susan (Jerry), Karen (Gordon), David (Anne) and his deceased youngest Michael (Leslie and Nicole); beloved grandfather to Andrew (Genevieve), Caroline (Cody), Richard (deceased), Duncan (Angel), Stuart (Levi), Martha, Eric (deceased), Ella, Spencer and Holly; most recently great-grandfather to Myles and Wyatt; brother to Farncomb (deceased). He frequently joked 'I don't know what I want to be when I grow up', and he indeed led many lives: dairy farmer; photographer; teacher; private pilot; Mason (grand master); horticulturalist (Le Gresley violets); swim coach (Bubbles); historian; opera buff and music collector. Initially a professional photographer, Balfour went on to teach science and chemistry to many young Ontarians at Etobicoke Collegiate; White Oaks Secondary and then University of Toronto Schools, where he spent most of his teaching career. To this day people comment on their memorable times in his chemistry lab blowing up beakers and experimenting with things that would probably be verboten these days. He was always proud of his many students and it is without doubt that he left an indelible mark on many prominent Canadians. Always a social and entertaining person his memory was slipping recently and the pandemic was difficult for him, yet he always appreciated the fact that he had led a very good life. Well into his nineties he would regale us with bits of information gleaned from The New Scientist, one of his favourite magazines. He was interested and active until near the end. A good life indeed. Many thanks to his medical and caregiving team, especially Dr. Tecimer, Shery, Leila, Josephine, Genalyn and Leo. Interment at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.turnerporter.ca