Passed away on August 17th at the age of 85 at his Ottawa home surrounded by his family. Beloved and devoted husband of Silvia (née Heggli). Loving father to Oliver (Daniel Sadler) of Calgary, Alberta. Will be dearly remembered by many nieces, cousins, his extended Swiss family and many friends. Predeceased by his parents; Helen (née Thompson) and John Armstrong and his brother David.
Chris was Beaver Leader with Scouts Canada, amateur classical guitarist, excellent photographer and a pretty darn good woodworker. He met Silvia at a music appreciation course in 1970 and was a dedicated musician and chorister with many ensembles and choirs over the years. He was perhaps most proud of his 30 years as a member of the Tenor Section of the Canadian Centennial Choir, where he cherished the opportunity to sing for us all on Parliament Hill on Canada Day, and at countless concerts in the Ottawa Region over the years. He will be remembered by all with fondness and affection for his cheerful and quirky sense of humour.
Chris was born and raised in his cherished Sherwood Drive residence, he loved his neighbourhood and city. He was inspired by the arts, musical performance in particular, and attended concerts at the National Arts Centre for decades. He also proudly supported and attended his son Oliver's many professional exploits in theatre and live performance, in Ontario and Alberta.
Chris adored visiting Silvia's family in Switzerland several times since the 1970s, where he delighted and indulged in the rich food and Swiss cultural
traditions. He also loved visiting his family cottage at Marshall's Bay and smelling the pine trees. In his last few years he was able to spend joyful days travelling to
Gros Morne National Park, The Laurentians and the Rocky Mountains.
Chris, Silvia and Oliver are grateful for the caring and compassionate medical care he
received over the years, and particularly in the last few months. Our thanks to Dr. Douglas and the team from the Supportive and Palliative Care Program of the
Ottawa Hospital, and the many service providers who cared for Chris.
Out of respect for his wishes there will be no formal memorial service. In memory of
Chris, donations to the Canadian Centennial Choir will be appreciated
Digital Guestbook
Stuart Robertson
Jim Martin
Chris was always engaging in his stories of life an Ottawa and insights into many music genres. He certainly livened things up! We will miss him. Deepest sympathy to Silva and Oliver.
Brenda Larche
I will remember his gentle kindness, and his competitive nature when it came to a game of Bocce Ball in the garden. Thanks for the memories. Rest in Peace Chris My sympathies to Oliver and Silvia.
backyard garden.
Maurice Kim & Family
Chris was a truly loving and welcoming soul. We were fortunate to share time with him, often helping with little projects around the house—moments that always turned into more than just work. Chris greeted us with a smile and never failed to share a story that lifted our spirits. His presence brought warmth and kindness into every interaction. He will be deeply missed, and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Sylvia and Oliver
Lesley Kelly
Chris was such a kind person and a wonderful neighbor to my parents (Jack and Mary Jo) on Sherwood Drive. I will always be thankful that Chris befriended my outdoor cat Pickett (who I kind of dumped on my parents when I moved to Arizona). Silvia and Oliver, I am sorry for your loss. Chris will be dearly missed. Love, Lesley
Kati Lyon-Villiger
Dear Silvia and Oliver, Death, that unrelenting reaper, has come to your house and taken dear Chris from you. I'll always remember him with you when we met at dinners, charitable functions, in which he always played a major part, his dry humour and integrity. Many of our discussions will linger on in my head, and I shall always keep a grateful remembrance of him. Until we meet, be well, dear Silvia and Oliver. K.
Morgana (Leslie) Armstrong
My uncle Chris played music for my infant self. It was my first concert and a babysitting gig for him. He’s clearly brought his gift to many others throughout the years. I will remember Chris for his kindness. My condolences to Silvia and Oliver.
Dan and Nancy Rubenstein
We remember with smiles a cottage visit when Chris and Dan, with boyish enthusiasm, fashioned a sail and mast for our old Scout canoe. It barely sailed and whatever forward motion it had was propelled by peals of laughter. Chris’s youthful humour and sense of fun were endearing, as was his kind and gentle soul.
Our sympathy to Silvia and Oliver-
Dan and Nancy
Julian Armstrong O'Brien
My cousin Chris was a friend and charming relative, always available to fill me in on my retirement project to write my family history and welcoming at his house, the long-loved 233 Sherwood Drive. I am sending up prayers for him and feeling much sadness that he has gone to a better place.
Ian Ferguson
How fitting to see Chris in his Centennial Choir formal dress for a Remembrance Day concert. I sang with Chris for many years in the Tenor section, and will always remember him fondly as a dedicated singer and unique and special person.
Chris was always a friendly person and Barbara and I both enjoyed singing with him for several years in Centennial Choir. His kind gentle demeanour were appreciated by us all. He will be missed