Obituary of Christopher Edward Olson

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Christopher Edward Olson, who died peacefully on May 17, 2026, in Ottawa, Ontario, after a courageous battle with cancer. Diagnosed in October, Christopher faced his illness with strength, grace, and resilience.

Christopher will be lovingly remembered by his 3 sons, Leif, Patrick, and Gunnar, his daughter Immy, his beloved wife Rebekah, his parents, Cindy and Alan, and his mother and father-in-law, Andrea and Albert Peters. He is predeceased by his brother David, whom he thought of often.

Chris grew up in Smiths Falls. In his youth, he attended Camp Iawah, where he became known as Ollie and, more importantly, met the love of his life, Rebekah. They attended the University of Ottawa together and were married on October 11th, 1997 and continued to reside in Ottawa.

Chris was a dedicated high school teacher and coach at Hillcrest High School in Ottawa, where he was deeply committed to the community, leading the annual Movember campaign to advocate for men’s health and organizing the “Amazing Hillcrest” initiative to celebrate the accomplishments of graduates. “Sir” as he was often called in school, would have success coaching the girls’ basketball team and later the badminton team and club. He will be profoundly missed by his friends, colleagues, and the many students whose lives he touched.

Known for his quick wit and wonderful sense of humour, Chris had a gift for making people laugh and keeping those around him in stitches. He was incredibly creative, whether it be playing the guitar, drawing, or graphic design, he brought his personality and joy to all mediums. Chris approached every situation with a sense of humour that brought levity and a few laughs to any room he entered.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to family, friends, and neighbours for their love and support; the staff and students at Hillcrest High School and within the OCDSB; the compassionate teams at The Ottawa Hospital General Campus and Maison de l’Est Hospice, the Camp Iawah community, and PSPC, who allowed his wife, Rebekah, to be there with Chris during his treatment, something he was grateful for every single day.

Chris was a proud supporter of Movember, Ottawa Innercity Ministries, World Vision, and Kiva.org.

He will be remembered for his humour, his kindness, and the love he shared with those around him.

Friends and family are invited to visit at the Heritage Funeral Complex, 1250 Trim Road, Orleans on Friday, May 29th from 2:00PM to 4:00PM and from 7:00PM to 9:00PM. Visitation will also take place on Saturday, May 30th from 10AM until time of a Funeral Service in the Chapel at 11AM. For those not able to attend the Service in person, Chris’ Service will be livestreamed.

All arrangments are under the care of Heritage Funeral Complex.