Charles Poul Jagersborg Andersen

A life defined by hard work, compassion, and devotion to family came to rest with the passing of Charles Poul Andersen on October 4th at Lions Gate Hospice.

Born in North Vancouver on April 9, 1938, Charles was the third son of Lars and Gerda Andersen. The Andersen family had immigrated from Denmark to Calgary before settling in North Vancouver in 1930. Lars was a Lutheran Church/Southern Baptist Missionary and farmer, known for his generosity and support of others through the difficult post–Great Depression years. Gerda was a kind and prudent woman, devoted to raising her children and offering food and shelter to struggling Danish immigrants.

As a boy, Charles helped with family chores before setting off on adventures around Lynn Valley with his older brothers, George and Jack. He had a deep appreciation for animals, people, and the world around him. Charles possessed a sharp mind, a strong work ethic, and a lifelong curiosity. He was always eager to learn, debate, and put in the hours to do the job right.

In the 1960s, Charles co-founded Andersen McKinnon Log Brokerage Ltd., later renamed Canadian Overseas Log & Lumber Ltd., with partner Doug McKinnon. After Doug’s retirement in 1992, Charles established Anfor, which grew to include a sawmill on the Fraser River, a marine transportation company, tree farm, and woodlot. Working alongside his children, grandchildren, and trusted colleagues, Charles built a lasting legacy of enterprise, integrity, and leadership in British Columbia’s forestry industry.

In the 1980s, with his first wife, Marilynn, Charles designed their family home at the base of Mount Seymour Mountain. It became a cornerstone of the Andersen family—a welcoming place for relatives, friends, and animals alike.

Charles spent the last seven years of his life in his West Vancouver home with his wife, Vicky, where he continued to enjoy his work, family, and the community around him.

Charles will be remembered as a devoted family man of strong morals and generous spirit. He cared deeply for others, both personally and professionally, and continued to work and support those around him until his final days.

He is survived by his wife, Vicky; daughter Rochelle; son Ronald (Christy); stepsons Cameron (Heather) and Jeff (Pauline); as well as his loving grandchildren, Richard (Coralee), Charlie Jr. (Desiree), Taneesha, Kiana, Maya (William), Ava, Halle, North, Bear and great-grandchildren Harrison, Theodore.

Though Charles has left us, his legacy endures—in North Vancouver, the forestry community, and the Vancouver Danish community.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Terminal City Club, Vancouver, on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11:30 am, with proceedings commencing at noon. All who knew Charles are warmly invited to attend. The family kindly requests no flowers or gifts.