DEKKER, Charles John (Chuck, Charlie) Passed away peacefully on October 6, 2011 and as was his wish, in the comfort of his own home surrounded by the love and care of his family. He leaves to mourn his devoted and loving life partner and wife of 34 years, Liz and their two children, Chris (Victoria) and Jessica (Todd), his mother, Johanne Dekker of Surrey, BC and his six younger siblings, Jim (Sharon), Joanne (Wes), Frank (Tracy), Connie (Nick), Sandra, and Sam, his mother in-law, Eve Van Donkersgoed and many nieces and nephews. Chuck was predeceased by his father, Simon (Sam) Dekker and his father in-law, Gies Van Donkersgoed. Chuck had a life-long love of reading, thinking, and learning. Although he enjoyed his privacy and time spent alone, he was a great conversationalist, always willing to share his knowledge, opinion, and humour on a vast variety of topics. From an early age, he was fiercely independent, forward thinking, and strong and for the majority of his working life, self-employed. He was extremely proud of his children, Chris and Jess's accomplishments, encouraging and supporting them in every possible way. "You have to live in every moment" was a phrase he liked to say and sums up the vision he had for his life and how he lived. Chuck never complained but believed in moving forward and remaining optimistic no matter what the circumstance. Charles was a grateful recipient of a heart transplant in 1991. The family would like to thank and acknowledge the organ transplant team of Vancouver General Hospital whose expertise made it possible for him to enjoy twenty more years of quality life. Also, many thanks to the Cardiac Transplant team of Foothills Hospital of Calgary.