In memoriam: Chris Lalonde

Dr. Christopher Edward Lalonde
Sept. 7, 1959 – May 8, 2023

Chris Lalonde was an internationally recognized scientist based at UVic whose research, which he presented widely, focused on the role of culture in reducing suicide risk among Indigenous youth. He earned many awards throughout his career including, most recently, a Lifetime Achievement Award from UVic and the Exceptional Service Award from the Jean Piaget Society.

Chris grew up in St. Catharines, Ontario, the eldest of five children. In his early 20s, he moved to Vancouver, where he found a passion for developmental psychology at the University of British Columbia. He married Laurie Chesworth in 1985 and they raised three children as Chris earned his BSc and then PhD. He began his research and teaching career at UVic in 1998.

Chris wore many hats—most of them silly—in his personal life: devoted husband, father, uncle, and grandfather, trivia quiz master on family Zooms, tech adviser and loyal friend. He loved: watching his beloved Vancouver Canucks and Toronto Blue Jays, billiards and Euchre, nicknames and nonsense words. He was a masterful storyteller who delighted children. His singing voice will be deeply missed, especially around campfires in Tofino, Penetang and Quinnville.

Chris died on May 8, 2023, due to complications of liver disease. He is survived by his wife Laurie, his son Riley (Kelsey), grandson Lukas, daughter Lise (Jordan Bell). Chris was predeceased by his first-born son Peter, and his parents Jerome and Theresa Lalonde. He leaves in mourning siblings: Ken, Lisa, Michelle and Doug; in-laws John Woulfe, Michelle Woulfe, André Picard, Tasha Menary, Peter and Anne Chesworth, Linda and Jim Nolan; and his nieces and nephews: Kelsey, Patrick, Zoé, Molly, Michael, Kieran, Emmet, Natalie, Anaïs, Raphaëlle and Maeve, as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Indspire.