Charles B. Dunham

Photo by Kate, 2001. Dinner at Auberge Du Petit Prince

Our friend and erstwhile UWO Computer Science colleague Charles B. Dunham passed away yesterday, March 18 2024, in Palliative Care at Victoria hospital, London. Charles was 86 years old and had been in care at Maple View Terrace for several years now. He died peacefully, but we kept expecting him to awaken and say, "You're wrong! And do you want to know why?". Yes Charles, we'll miss your blunt corrections and gentle humor.

Charles is survived by a brother Gordon (BC) and a sister Alison (FL) and by long time friends Anne, Mike, David and more.

Charles was a professor of mine back in the 1970's when I was earning my Computer Science degrees. He was one of the very early members of the newly formed department. We formed a friendship over his love of photography and the outdoors. His published work in the discipline was always way over my head! But then Charles was not a great communicator.

In his later years I was declared, with David and Mike, as his Power of Attorney for Personal Care. We all helped with his transition to assisted living at Maple View Terrace where he lived out his final ten years. These last few weeks have been demanding. Charles had a major event in February that had him hospitalized while we were on holidays in Texas. There were several long distance phone calls with staff at Victoria Hospital as care decisions had to be made before and after surgery. On our return I was able to visit with Charles several times, met with support staff at MVT, followup care was debated (for the February event), and Palliative Care support was arranged but soon after Charles was readmitted in dire need. His POA instructions were clear as to the care he wanted in his final days and I've done my best to honor his wishes.

He died peacefully last night. His dear friends Anne and Mike were able to visit in the early evening to say their good byes. I had spent some time with him in the afternoon but he was gone when I returned after their visit. I'm glad his suffering is over.

I want to acknowledge the kind and caring support of staff at MVT where Charles lived and Victoria Hospital where he died. They helped Charles, and me, during these difficult days. Anne, Mike and David have been true friends to Charles, their support made mine all the easier.

See also obituary posting at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, London (April 2).

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