To light a candle in memory of Chris Tomanik fill out this form:

Memorial Candle

Chris Tomanik

• Mike McKnight lit a candle on September 29th, 2009:
  "Sadly, I just learned of Chris' passing. Having coached football with Chris I saw his passion for kids, sports and life. I will fondly remember the season we coached a struggling team but one that gave a foundation to kids for success the rest of their lives."

• Lindsay Holoyuk lit a candle on July 1st, 2009:
  "My heart just breaks, everytime i look at anything that reminds me of you- And i hope that you know how much you mean to me. Chris you were like a dad to me, always showed me how to be a lady, and how to have class., Like my beautiful auntie.. I looked up to you both, and really appreciated you having me as a part of your family.. I know it wasnt always easy- but i will never forget everything you taught me and told me.You were always so good to me. . I wish we had more time together, because i think now you would be proud of me. I wish you could have met my baby boy Rhyder, who is my whole world. When he grows up i sure hope he is alot like you.. and your sons. You were such a great dad, and such a great role model. Im going to miss you so much, but i will cherish you in my heart forever- I dont understand why someone so amazing was taken from us but im going to try and believe that everything happens for a reason and continue to make you proud. Lisa, Cole, And J Bear i love you.. Uncle you will never be forgotten.. I love you so much.. xoxo lindsay"

• Susan Davis lit a candle on April 23rd, 2009:
  "Dear Lisa, I just heard the tragic news and my heart breaks for you and the boys. The steady arrival of flowers at your desk were a constant and touching reminder of how much Chris loved you! May his spirit forever soar!"

• Penny Holoyuk (Tomanik) lit a candle on April 17th, 2009:
  "Its no surprise what an amazing brother Chris was thankyou everyone for all the support and kind words they will be forever cherished.Thankyou Lisa,Cole,and Jared for giving my brother the best years of his life , I know he loved and worshiped his family more than words could say. You were truly a celebrity family. I will miss you Chris and remember your smile every time I look into my nephews eyes. LOVE FOREVER AND ALWAYS Penny XOX"

• Jesse Frederick lit a candle on April 17th, 2009:
  "I have a pair of candles on the table and they have been burning for many days now. Day after Day, I keep looking but each time I check the fire has not gone out. It just goes and goes. How symbolic. I have known you a long time but I wish I had known you better. I will remember your kindness and friendship with hope you are watching over those you care about and who have cared about you."

• Pam, David and Staff Taphouse Wineshop lit a candle on April 12th, 2009:
  "We are all incredibly saddened by the passing of our friend and customer Chris. We only knew Chris for about a year but we always enjoyed to his visits to our store, and our chats about wine. It was a pleasure to search out special wines for him. His obvious excitement and appreciation as we helped him to add some great wines to his collection made our days.We hope that there is Mollydooker Carnival in heaven and we raise a glass to your memory. You will be very much missed. Our sincerest condolences go out to Lisa, Jared, Cole and your family. Thank you for a beautiful memorial yesterday."

• Christine Marshall lit a candle on April 11th, 2009:
  "Lisa, Cole and Jared, I'm sorry that I couldn't be there today. I'm thinking of you and love you very much. See you when I get back to Vancouver."

• Leia, Conrad Schatz lit a candle on April 10th, 2009:
  "As the shock subsides into various emotions, feel comforted remembering how Chris loves life. How much he loves his Lisa, Cole & Jared & you HAVE to burst into smiles because that love is so great and will ALWAYS permeate around them. Our hearts go out to family & friends of Chris & Lisa.. Your photo album is a BeautyFull way of reminding us all how vibrant, generous, bon vivant a man Chris is. Chris, a visionary, an entrepreneur, a mover and a shaker, pillar of the community, a savvy example of a solid man. A loving father for Jared and Cole, a loving husband. He will be deeply missed by us and as we do, Conrad & I will remember precious moments that we were privileged to capture with him. Already I am smiling thinking of his energetic & generous Spirit. Believe me, with all the energy that Chris had, he is still vibing around. If there really is a Heaven somewhere, he got there. Chris was Kool. Love you Lisa, Cole & Jared xx/oo"

• Heather and Geoff McLeod lit a candle on April 10th, 2009:
  "So many memories over the last nine years... Geoff and I will always remember Chris driving in his Porche with the top down in the freezing cold, the generosity of spirit he shared with our boys and the sheer delight in watching the two of you on the dance floor at \"every gathering\" we\'ve had since meeting, to name just a few, Lisa, Cole and Jared, our deepest sympathies are with you at this time. Chris touched so many of us with his warmth and personality that he will always live on in our hearts!"

• Christine Gareau lit a candle on April 10th, 2009:
  "Lisa - I am so sorry to hear of the devastating news. My heart goes out to you and the boys. Please know that Chris will always have a special place in my heart. He definitely was a one-of-a-kind person with a most generous heart and soul. So glad that we got to see the both of you last year in Scottsdale. A kiss to Cole and Jared. Love Christine XO"

• jacquie gould lit a candle on April 10th, 2009:
  "To Lisa, Cole and Jared We watched you as a family over the years at Mulgrave and got to know you a little when MIchael and Cole played GSL together. We saw what a wonderful and proud dad Chris was and what a beautiful family you are. We are very sad for you and our thought are with you every day. He will be remembered with fondness and love. Jacquie Gould and MIchael Blundell "

• Jackie Filippone lit a candle on April 10th, 2009:
  "Chris was a true knight in shinning armour! Always willing to give more. I will never forget our first encounter, meeting Chris at Whistler with Lisa for the first time (true love at first sight). Cowboy hat and boots the vibrant and handsome man from Calgary. During the next 18 years his energy, love for life and his family just kept growing, and growing. The memories that Chris and you and I have had, will be memories that no one can ever take away. Our friendship will remain as strong as ever, your friend for life. Love Jackie XO"

• Doug Pell lit a candle on April 10th, 2009:
  "I have always been proud to call Chris my friend. Bev and I were ill to hear the news of Chris's passing away. We wish you, Lisa and the boys the best. Although we have not been in touch lately you were not far from our minds. I will always remember Chris as a true friend. Doug & Bev Pell"

• Barb and Mehdi Pouroskoui lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lisa, Cole and Jared. We are thinking of you during this difficult time."

• Stuart Holwill lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "On behalf of GSL football please accept our sincere condolences . Chris will be greatly missed and his enthusiam and passion for football will be remembered by his fellow coaches, and the players and parents with which he was involved. May he rest in peace."

• Sandie and Mike Weber lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "Dear Lisa, We are all shocked by the loss of Chris, and our thoughts have been with you, Cole & Jared since your phone call. Kyle adored Chris and always talked about what a great Dad he was. Our deepest sympathy go out to you Lisa, Cole & Jared, as well as all the Tomanik family. Our heartfelt condolences. Sincerely, Sandie, Mike & Kyle Weber"

• Cassie Randall lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "I was deeply saddened to hear the loss of Chris. Lisa, I can still smell the flourishing bouquet of lilys at your desk which were a constant reminder that true love really does exist. I have never seen so much love radiate between people like it freely flowed between you two...almost otherworldly....just like a fairy tale. Chris was a beautiful man in all sense of the word and fully embraced every single moment - so much so that he could have written the book on Enjoying Life and have it achieve Oprahs seal of approval. His zest for life always made me smile and I have always carried that with me. Draw on your inner strength and the strength of your family during these times. Chris will forever will be missed and leaves a beautiful legacy behind. My thoughts and love are with you and the boys. XO"

• Al, Robin, Carlie, and Justin Torres lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "Our deep condolences and thoughtful prayers go out to Lisa, Cole, Jared, and the entire Tomanik family. We will always remember Chris as a loving, caring husband and father. The time he spent with Cole and Jared showed the ever present devotion to his sons. The love Chris gave to Lisa was strong and passionate, as he was such a courteous, kind, and gentle man. He will be forever missed and cherished, as will our memories. The times we spent with Chris and his family in Maui were special times, and we are so grateful to have met such a wonderful person with a wonderful family. Chris looked at everything he saw with a smile, and created a powerful cloud of energy. Again, our prayers are with the Tomanik family through this difficult time. Chris will always have a special places in our hearts."

• Angela Beer lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "Dear Lisa, Jared and Cole: Chris was one of those people who managed to brighten up your life with his big smile and his kindness - I will be forever grateful for the many Starbucks left on my desk when he brought you those wonderful lilies each week, which we all enjoyed so much. He has left an indelible mark on all who loved and knew him, and he will never be forgotten, and we all grieve with and for you at this very sad time. With love, Ang."

• erminia minicucci lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "Chris, such a kind loving and very happy and respectful person always, will be sadly missed by us all, our thoughts and prayers are with you Lisa Jaret and Cole at this very difficult time, Dino Erminia Michael and Nisia Minicucci"

• Monique, Brian Ironside lit a candle on April 9th, 2009:
  "Lisa, Cole, Jared: We agonized with you and the rest of the family last week while Chris was in the hospital. We share your shock and sadness at the loss of this young husband, father, son, and brother. We pray that support and love are abundant and that they, along with fond memories, will comfort you and that the pain and sorrow of your profound loss subside each day. You are in our thoughts and prayers. "

• Dane Walton lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "Lisa: I have lit a candle everyday since I heard the tragic news. I am so very sad but I do know that the big guy will be smiling down on all of us. He was a great man and a better friend and he will always be in my memories."

• Barrey Tanner lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "I would like to expressmy sincerest condolences to the Tomaik family. Some of the clearest memories of Chris were when we would run into each other up at Sun Peaks during spring break or at a hockey game. He would always have a smile and kind words and be full of energy. I got to know him well enough to see his passion for life and his devotion to his wife and two boys. He has left an imprint in my mind. Thank you Chris for all the kind words and smiles. You will be missed."

• Arie Merrin lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "I cannot begin to express my sadness for the loss of Chris. My sincerest condolences to Lisa, Cole, Jared and the Tomanik family. The memories are many and fond. Chris could turn darkness into light and light into fireworks. His infectious smile and overpowering positive attitude is witness to all that have had the pleasure to know him. To Lisa his true love, Cole and Jared his pride and joy, be strong, be happy, stay comitted to goodness and above all as your father used to always say " Live Like a Lion ""

• Terry Oatway lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "Our deepest condolences to Lisa, the boys and Chris' family. My sister (Lori Miles) has always spoken so highly of Chris' kindness and wonderful zest for life. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we hope that your memories will help you and the boys in the days to come. Love from Terry, Mark, Sean & Shane"

• John MacLeod lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "I have spoken with Chris on the phone for several years. End of 2007, we met up at a conference in London and we went out. I took him on the tube for the first time, and he bought the beers, (and Champagne). We had a great night and bonded. Chris was a fantastic guy - a real gentleman and someone who took great care of the interests of others, and told me of his warmth for his family. He felt that, I was his buddie. That was an honour. This is all too soon, that we have lost such a lovely bloke - a real mate to those who knew him. My deepest sympathy to his family and close friends - from Johnnie, as he called me. "

• Heidi Smith lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "Dear Lisa. Ever since I heard the news last week you and your boys have been on my mind nonstop. Your family to me was such a perfect representation of happiness, love for each and joy. I always remember your many flowers at the desk (when I would stop by) at E+S from Chris and the love in both your eyes for each other. I am in Hawaii right now with the Chalmers (Jake & Becky), but we are all with you in many prayers, and discussions right now. Love to you and ALL your family..Heidi and Rocco"

• Paul and Cheryl Smith lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "We will miss Chris' perpetual energy, perpetual optimism and perpetual smile."

• Pat, Rene Gareau lit a candle on April 8th, 2009:
  "CHRIS; caring, kind, generous, charismatic ,gregarious, and fun-loving - that's what we remember. Many fond memories of our great times together, especially crashing your honeymoon in romantic Italy!!!!!!!! Many laughs and tears over too many bottles of your favourite GAYA wine. You will be missed. Our hearts go out to Lisa, Cole & Jared. "

• Deanne Dietrich lit a candle on April 7th, 2009:
  " So sorry for your loss my prayers and thoughts are with you at this very sad and hard time I met Chris a few time He Was always so cheerful could put a smile on anybodys face I remember Chris when he Put Drapes up @ the house I lived in He Did Such A Wonderful Job he will be sadly missed my condolances and sympathies go out to all the Tomanik Family from Cheryl Tomanik Sister Deanne "

• Gregg Baragar lit a candle on April 7th, 2009:
  "My most sincere condolences to your wife and boys and to your Mom, Dad, brother and sisters. I will never forget the good times we had growing up in Willow Park or the Friday and Saturday nights at the Bank followed by the Sunday morning football games in Bonavista. Although we lost touch somewhat over the last couple of years I can tell by the people I've talked to and the tributes I have read, that you never changed. You remained the big hearted, full of life and passion, friend that you always were. From one friend to another, you will be forever missed. ""

• Graham Hughes lit a candle on April 7th, 2009:
  "I have known Chris for 12 years since the early days of Capstone (then Serena ), and always found Chris to be happy to see you and in a good mood. I enjoyed the camaraderie and the excitement that Chris generated about his company’s prospects. His love for his family was obvious in the personal photos that he had displayed in his office. I will miss him."

• Steve Varley lit a candle on April 7th, 2009:
  "Chris was larger than life. Many wet/cold days on a lacrosse field were warmed up with his enthusiasm and can-do persona. His commitment to family and set of values was very evident and Chris will be missed. Our heartfealt condolances go out to Lisa, Cole, Jared and family. Sincerely, Steve, Sue, Jordan & Tyler Varley"

• Lynn and Peter Henricsson lit a candle on April 7th, 2009:
  "We are so deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Meeting Chris outside the wine shop last summer and then getting to know you both was a highlight of the year for us. His infectious energy and ever-present smile have always left us feeling great about our time together. We are really going to miss him."

• Linda Hammond lit a candle on April 6th, 2009:
  "I only met Chris once with my husband but he certainly made an impact. We are very sorry for the loss on someone so full of life. Our prayers to your family."

• Terry Hammond lit a candle on April 6th, 2009:
  "My sincerest condolences to the Tomanik family."

• Steve Irwin lit a candle on April 6th, 2009:
  "You were a true gentleman and insperation. I didnt know Chris well but just like so many others he had a lasting impact on my life. My deepest condolances and sympathies to the whole Tomanik clan."

• Scott Campbell lit a candle on April 6th, 2009:
  "Chris you are a gracious man who was very involved with family and community. Your presence will be dearly missed by all whom you encountered."

• Laura, Graham, Anthony, Natthan Davis lit a candle on April 6th, 2009:
  "The things about Chris: I will always remember Chris for his generosity and huge heart. When times were hard for us, Chris was there for my two boys and me. He took the boys fishing, walks in the woods and camping. That’s just a small example of the memories we have of him. We send our deepest sympathies to you and the boys Lisa. Chris was so well respected and everyone loved his infectious smile and personality. Words feel inadequate at a time like this… I want you to know that his spirit has touched many people's lives as it has ours. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers."

• Romney Grant lit a candle on April 6th, 2009:
  "I didn't know Chris very well and it's been a long time since our boys played together...but Chris always impressed me as a kind and generous man wholeheartedly dedicated to his family. He left far too early. My thoughts are with you Lisa and the boys. Romney"