Constance Mary Chandler

Predeceased by her cherished husband Gaston Chouinard, her parents Helen and Joseph Chandler and her brother Steve. Lovingly missed by her siblings Carole (predeceased by Carmen), Joe, Ted (Eva), Bob (Nancy), Veronica (Norm) and Richard (Claire). Dearly missed by her many nieces and nephews, including her Godson Ryan, her close friends, especially her lifelong friend Isabelle, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Connie grew up in Scarborough, graduated from W.A. Porter Collegiate, obtained her accounting certification at Ryerson and studied at York University. She had a successful career in accounting, becoming an assistant controller. In her younger years, Connie enjoyed dancing, travel, (especially her European tour, her Ireland trip with Carole and a special trip with Mom to Mexico), gardening and flower arranging. She also enjoyed bowling, where she met her husband, Gaston. Connie enjoyed Girls’ night out, with girlfriends or her sisters and Mom; and our annual Chandler fishing trip, an evolution from the boys’ fishing trip after our dad sadly passed.

At age 38, Connie’s life suddenly changed after a brainstem stroke. We are proud of Connie and the odds she surpassed in her recovery through sheer determination and perseverance combined with the love and support of Gaston and his can-do attitude. Not long after, treasured annual holidays resumed; New Years with the Chouinard family in Quebec and summer cottaging with the Chandlers. Soon after, they purchased their first home together and throughout the years enjoyed the simple pleasures of gardening and a shared meal together when not lending a helping hand or visiting friends and family. Creating fun experiences for their nieces and nephews was always a priority.

Connie was known for her preserves (especially strawberry jam) and baking. All family functions over the years were topped-off by a delicious array of goodies accompanied by take-away containers for the family. Christmas was a highlight for Connie and Gaston, and they would start planning in August, creating imaginative homemade gifts. Christmas decorating was a big part of their celebrations.

After the sudden passing of her husband in 2021, Connie was determined to continue in their family home with their faithful dog, Milo, and was appreciative of the support of neighbours and family during that time. In 2023 Connie had a medical setback, and while hospitalized, Milo, though lovingly cared for, went to be with Gaston. This made Connie’s need and decision to move to a retirement home a little easier for her. She participated in the many activities and met some special new friends along the way.

Throughout her life, Connie has accepted all challenges with a stoic resolve and a focus on moving forward. In late March of this year, we were devastated to learn Connie had an aggressive cancer. Connie accepted this news with grace, wanting quality of time over quantity of time and wishing that others would not be sad. She enjoyed visits with her family and close friends; and typical of Connie, who liked to see family and friends gather and enjoy themselves, she hosted a Greek luncheon punctuated with her personal favourite dishes of flaming saganaki and baklava for dessert!

The family would like to thank the entire team, especially her personal support workers, at Park Avenue Manor Retirement Home, her physiotherapist Jim, her spiritual advisor at Joseph Brant Hospital and the extraordinary care team and volunteers at Carpenter Hospice in Burlington.

Family and friends are invited to gather during part or all of services at Giffen-Mack Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 4115 Lawrence Ave. E., West Hill on Monday May 26. Visitation at 11:30, Celebration of Life at 12:30 with Reception immediately following. For those who wish to join the family for interment of ashes, it will be nearby at St. Margaret’s Cemetery in the Cremation Garden, approximately 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Salvation Army, The Carpenter Hospice in Burlington, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences and notes of loving memories may be left at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/funeral-homes/ontario/west-hill/giffen-mack-funeral-home-cremation-centre/3781