Chris Hall loved his life and lived it to the fullest.  He was born September 17, 1950 and left us on December 21, 2014 following a long battle with Cancer.

Chris is survived by his loving wife, Pam Harknett; sister, Janice (Doug) Hemming; stepsons, Brock (Jane) and Drew Henson and grandchildren, Georgia and Annika Henson. Chris was a very loving husband, brother, stepfather and “Papa” to all.

He was a third generation Victorian and the son of Leon and Mildred Hall. He attended Margaret Jenkins Elementary, graduated from Oak Bay High in 1967 and attended the University of Victoria. On May 17, 1986, he married long time friend and fellow UVIC Vike, Pam Harknett. Chris retired from BC Buildings Corporation in 2005.

Chris cherished his summers at Shawnigan Lake, winters in Palm Desert and year round golf with his buddies at Uplands Golf Club. Attending major sporting events and concerts across North America were also passions for Chris.

Chris excelled in baseball, basketball, football, rugby and lacrosse. Through sports, he made many friendships that would last his entire life. In basketball, Chris played for the UVIC Vikes and later the Senior Men’s Scorpions and Datatech teams. In football, Chris was a receiver and kicker with the BC Football Conference Dolphins and was named to the all-time Victoria team. In rugby, Chris first played for Velox, then moved on to first division with the James Bay Athletic Association. In baseball, Chris was an infielder with the Victoria Senior Amateur All Stars and spent a year in the Southern Baseball League with Swift Current just prior to being drafted by the Boston Bolts of the National Lacrosse League in 1975.

From that point, Chris launched a storied career in lacrosse that would conclude with being recognized as one of the greatest coaches and mentors in the game. He spent nine years as a player and ten years as Head Coach of the Victoria Shamrocks, winning three Mann Cups along the way. In field lacrosse, Chris co-founded the Senior A Men’s Victoria Seasprays/Royal Waxmen Club that won 14 Ross Cup national championships. Chris was a defenseman with Canada’s National Field Lacrosse Team through three World Championships and was selected to the All World Team at the World Games in Los Angeles in 1984. He then went on to become Head Coach of the National field lacrosse team through two more World Championships. Chris also coached Team England in two world indoor box lacrosse championships.

Chris was named Head Coach of the National Lacrosse League Calgary Roughnecks in 2002 and won an NLL Championship. After six years in Calgary, he went on to become Head Coach of the San Jose Stealth and won another NLL title when the team moved to Washington in 2012, becoming only the second coach in the history of the league to win titles with two different teams.

Chris spent 12 years as a Head Coach in the National Lacrosse League, was a five-time All Star Game coach and retired this year as the 3rd all-time wins leader. He was nominated and won election as an NLL Hall of Fame inductee Class of 2014. Chris was also inducted into the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame in October of 2014.

We will be celebrating Chris’ phenomenal life on Monday, January 12, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. in The Carson Room, Level 2, Victoria Conference Centre, 720 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Shamrocks Alumni University Scholarship program in memory of Chris Hall. Cheques payable to “Victoria Shamrock Alumni”, c/o 4174 Thornhill Crescent, Victoria BC, V8N 5E5.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Bros. Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com

  • Margot and Bob Clerkson

    We were so sorry to hear that after fighting so hard, Chris finally succumbed to cancer. It was so wonderful to connect with you both in PD after so many tears and we will miss him when we are there visiting. Our love and best wishes go out to you and your family, and I hope we will see you this spring for a good chat and visit.
    All the best
    Margot and Bob

  • Maureen (Avery) and Ian Atherton

    We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Many happy memories for each of us with the Chandler Street group or with Pam at the lake. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
    Maureen and Ian

  • Christine Schwabe

    Dear Janice, Sam and I are deeply saddened by the passing of your beloved brother. Know that you are in our hearts and thoughts at this difficult time.

  • Gina Lazaro

    We are thinking of you all during this difficult time. So sorry! Hugs!

    Shane, Gina, Audrina & Nixon Mavin

  • Ken Smith, Linda Nickerson

    Pam

    As Linda and sit after enjoying a Sunday dinner together – and plan for Monday afternoon, I am reminded of the events, over the years, that you and Chris extended an invitation to us to drop by at the beach house or just drop by at a Christmas dinner or some other event, they were always filled with laughter, maybe a cigar, but most of all with love and kindness. We had the pleasure of returning some of the hospitality and love when you attended our wedding a few years back but the love and kindness you and your sister and family extended to my new partner will never be forgotten – Chris, you, Marsha and Doug are all in our hearts and those memories are not only captured in great pics but many stories around a fireplace.

    Chris will be missed, by many communities, and may you garner the strength for a bright outlook from these people he has touched over the years.

    Ken and Linda

  • Carolynn and Victor Horton

    Pam and family,
    We are so sorry to hear about Chris, what a great guy, he gave so much and was fun to be around.
    We hope that your feelings of sorrow and loss will soon be filled with many happy memories.
    Love Carolynn and Victor

  • Lori Hitchcox

    Pam & family,

    Surround yourselves with the love & fond memories of family & friends; this will help during this difficult time. It was through field lacrosse that I met ‘CH’ & I loved his passion for the game, pride in the players , his humour & smiles & the ‘odd clip board’ throwing….He will be greatly missed. Hugs & love xoxoox

  • Brenda quin

    Pam and family,
    It is always difficult to find the appropriate words to express how sorry we are for your loss. Chris was a wonderful man who accomplished so much and set the bar very high for others to follow.
    My brother, Harry Maltby, who now resides in Australia, went to University with Chris and played basketball with him. When I told him of Chris’ passing he said he can still hear his laugh as clear as anything! What a lovely memory!
    Thinking powerful thoughts for you at this time! Brenda Quin, Tanya and Jeremy

  • Kent Black

    Dear Pam and family, I am sorry to hear the sad news. Chris was a great person. He was a great mentor to me at BCBC in the 90’s and always had a welcoming smile. It was a pleasure to know Chris and a great joy to introduce the NLL Champion to my lacrosse playing boys. Thoughts are with you and your family. Take care – Kent

  • Maureen Hobbs

    Dear Pam,
    My heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. Special people like my Doug and your Chris have left memorable legacies as they dedicated their lives to living life to the fullest. In so doing, they also benefited the well being of so many others! They lived with passion, strength and resilience, and how fortunate were we. It goes without saying, that anything I can do for you and your family, please let me know. Sincerely with love, Maureen

  • Judi and Jerry Woytack

    Dear Pam…..

    We are absolutely heartbroken that such a wonderful Chris has left us. He handled this illness with such dignity and we know that was a challenge for him. He will be sorely missed by all of us.

    You were his strength and you did that with such grace. We know his loss will hurt for some time to come but hopefully happy memories will soon fill your sad heart.

    Love you lots,

    Judi and Jerry

  • Judy Robbins

    Rich and I were saddened to learn of Chris’ passing; our condolences, Pam, to you and your family. Rich and I both remember how happy we were when you and Chris became a couple — two wonderful people who would forge a wonderful life together. Hold on to the memories.

    We are out of country and will miss the celebration but will celebrate Chris and his life nonetheless.

  • Phil & Lee Pimlott

    Our sincerest sympathies to the entire Hall family on the passing of Chris. While we have not been in touch for many years, we have the fondest memories of Chris and we will always remember his good nature. sense of humour, and his ever-smiling face. We will be out of the country and not be able to attend the memorial service but our thoughts and prayers will be with the family.

  • Douglas and Sharon Hunt

    Dear Pam and family:
    We were so sorry to hear of Chris’ passing. He was such a wonderful person and he will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones at this very difficult time. We all are so fortunate having the privilege of knowing such a great and talented man. Your loving memories of Chris will be forever with you and help you through the trying days ahead. Take care, love, Doug and Sharon Hunt

  • Wally and Chris Vogelsang

    Dear Pam and family, our deepest condolences on your loss. Although the sorrow runs too deep for any words to say how much he will be missed by his family and all his friends. Please know that we share in your loss. Chris and Wally.

  • Rick L

    My condolences and sympathies to the Hall family on the passing of Chris. I will forever remember Chris for his honesty and teaching ability. A phrase from Chris I will forever remember and live by “seek to understand before you speak”

    Thank you for the opportunity and permitting me to an equal.

    My apologies on not being able to attend Chris’ celebration of life, however, my thoughts and prayers will be there in spirit.

  • Frank & Lorna Taylor

    Pam & Family–Our love and thoughts are with you at this sad & difficult time. Chris was a special person –always had “time for all”. He will be so missed by many!!

  • Judy Nygren (Brumwell)

    Dearest Pammy

    There are no “right” words for a time like this in your life. You just have to know that I am thinking of you all the time with love and support, but also with sadness in my heart.

    Chris was such a special guy – man, what a loss!

    I hope that you and the “babes” can get together when the time is right – whenever that may be.

    I will be very sorry to miss Chris’ celebration of life, as I will be away at that time in January.
    Arms around you Pam!

  • Bob and Lynne Bowles

    Pam and Family,
    Bob and I are so sorry to hear of Chris’s passing. He will be missed. You and the family are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Bob and Lynne

  • Bob Brandle

    Chris had the best smile and best laugh. He was larger than life. I worked with Chris at BC Buildings Corporation. We make this journey once and I am so glad that I got to share part of the journey with Chris and all the folks that worked with Chris at BCBC. Peace be with you my friend. Bob Brandle.

  • Brian, Stephanie and Marla Sacks

    Dear Pam and Family
    It was an honour to get to know CH as part of the Roughnecks Family during his years in Calgary.
    His enthusiasm for lacrosse rubbed off on everyone around him and his personality made it always a pleasure to spend time together. We will always remember our visit with you and Chris during a visit to Victoria.
    Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
    Sincerely,
    Brian’s, Stephanie and Marla Sacks

  • Robin Adair

    I was very saddened to hear that Chris Hall had passed away. During the 1980’s when I worked as a TV sports reporter at CHEK TV I interviewed Chris on countless occasions and and always found him to be extraordinarily dedicated to sports (particularly lacrosse) as well as being consistently pleasant and accessible. He enjoyed competition but loved people even more and deserved all the accolades he’s received during his lifetime and those that now follow his untimely passing. My deepest condolences to his family.

  • Louise Winter

    Pam, I’m so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.
    Louise

  • Tom Redman

    Charlie, Lauren and I have Chris in our hearts and souls. The mark of a great man is that people speaking highly of him long after he is gone.

  • BRUCE BARKER

    I was proud to work with CH as a member of the 2004 Calgary Roughnecks and when we won the World Championship that year the smile on his face when he lifted the Champions Cup over his head said a million words.

    I know Chris in heaven you and Les Bartley will be talking lacrosse every day.

    I was proud to know you and will miss seeing you behind the bench.

    GOD BLESS YOU

  • Dave Tooby

    Dear Pam,
    My Mom and family are really sorry for your loss. He was great guy and I’ll always remember the basketball games at First United and Uvic, and the great stories of success in lacrosse over the years. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
    Dave Tooby

  • MR.Jody Rice

    My deepest condolences and sympathies to the Hall family on the passing of my great friend of these last 11 years and childhood hero Big CH #13 nooboby ever beat him.also I’d like to offer the same for Milly on her passing last year. For these last 11 years since the Rocks played at bear mountain the highlight after each game was talking to Chris and Milly they always talked to me after each game and were always positive and funny. I will always remember their smiles and laughs. I’ll remember posing with CH in 05 and he and Bruce Alexander helping me raises the Mann cup over my head. Thank you Chris for being a great player super coach and friend I’ll never forget you and Milly may you both r.i..p.

  • Patrick McCarthy

    Dear Pam and family,
    I am extremely saddened for your loss. About three years ago I had the great privilege to be invited to play golf on Tuesdays with Chris. He was great company, a great golfer and athlete, and had a wonderful sense of humour. For me Tuesdays’ golf will never be the same.

  • Dave and Annie Mulcahy

    We’ll always remember Chris – A.K.A. Leon, Midnight, Champagne, Leander, CH – as a great friend, an outstanding competitor and a true family man. Wise beyond his years as evidenced by his extraordinary coaching career, Chris was always eager to pass on pearls of wisdom, one of which I remember distinctly. He once told me, “Mulcs, if you don’t use it you lose it.” Decades later, that has certainly rung true in my case.

    I’ll remember Chris for his ability to listen, and understand, and care about his friends. His cackle-like laugh is legendary and during our years playing basketball together, we laughed a lot. Chris and I once played gin rummy on a road trip to Yakima Washington. Van – ferry – highway = 11 straight hours. At a penny a point, Chris came out on top by 67 cents. Always a winner.

    Chris told me as a kid on Chandler Ave. sitting around the dinner table with Millie, Leon and Jan, that his parents would always stress to give back to the community. One example of that is that he and Jan purchased a birthday bell for the children at Margaret Jenkins Elementary across from the family home. On their birthday, a child gets to ring that bell donated in the Hall name – a fun, joyous moment for years to come.

    Clearly, Chris touched many, many lives in such a positive way and we will look forward to a cheer and a tear in his honour on the 12th.

    Dave, Annie and Jack Mulcahy

  • Wendy and Dennis Swonnell

    Very sorry to hear about Chris. We are thinking of you and your family. Give our best to Drew and Brock. Remember those baseball days. Take care.

    Love Dn and Wen

  • Sherry Bates

    Darling Friend Pammie,

    There is true physical and emotional heartache in life ~ this time is clear proof of that!
    Christopher was so much to so SO many!.
    He had us ALL at “Hello”… He was everything lovable: Delicious to look at, Ridiculously razor sharp wit, Beyond fun… oh so funny (that laugh!), Beyond joyful about life~an absolute “give it all kinda guy”, Generous, Kind, Sincere, A guy’s Guy, A Girl’s Guy, an unmeasurable Friend, devoted Son / Brother / Step Dad/GranD, and adoring Husband…
    Love gave you each other ~~ how awesome was that! … People dream/wish/pray for a “best friend marriage” ~~ you two where the upmost example of that… we friends got to enjoy the two that together simply where known as “One”.
    I was ~ and always will be so proud and honored to be your friend… and to have walked a shared path with the likes of you two… oh so lucky me.

    I know your family surrounds you and that you will celebrate Chris within the spirit of love that is Christmas… there are SO MANY raising glasses of cheer right now!

    Know that you are in my thoughts so deeply and with much love. Deepest heartfelt to Sister Jan too.
    In absolutely tender loving memory of our ~ your Chris.
    xxo
    Sher
    … I remember OH SO MANY days–and “those nights” like they where but a few short years ago… WE always had the most amazing fun ~~ as life should be! 🙂

  • John Grant Sr.

    My condolences to Chris’ family from John and Louise Grant and family and the Peterborough Minor Lacrosse Association.

  • Mary-Anne Neal

    My heart goes out to Pam and all the other members of Chris’ extended family. He was a shining light for so many and will be sadly missed in the years to come. All who knew him feel fortunate to have made his acquaintance.
    I am thinking about you during this time of grief. His was a life well lived, and his passing is a reminder for all of us to make the most of each day that we have together.

  • Gord and Pam ADAMS

    Our love to Pam and all the family. We will miss Chris with his big smile and fun laugh. A wonderful
    man who always enjoyed the family get togethers.

  • Bob and Linda Pearson

    Pam and Family,
    We send along our deepest sympathy on the loss of Chris. Our hearts are with you at this very difficult time.

  • Nancy Adams

    Pammy, I’m so sorry for your loss, but happy that you and Chris had so many years together and that you got to spend the last one in such a positive manner.

  • Mike & Marg Metcalfe

    Dear Pam & Janice, we are so very sorry for your loss…please know all the Metcalfe family have always admired the Hall legacy in Victoria!! Chris made us all very proud to be Victorians , these past days we all shared nice thoughts of knowing Chris, cheers to you, mike, marg & family

  • Mike & Marg Metcalfe

    Dear Pam & Janice, so very sorry to have to write this note of condolence…we always have admired Chris, our Metcalfe family always will remember the Hall legacy with much admiration …our thoughts these past days have brought back great memories of knowing Chris all these past years!! Cheers to
    Chris, the Metcalfe Family

  • George Hyne

    Pam and family,
    It is with great sadness I offer my condolences. Chris was a person of great character, a person you always loved to be around. And oh what a great laugh! He will be missed.

  • Ray & Diane DeGirolamo

    What a gentleman! For sure he will live in the hearts of many. He’ll be missed by all his many friends at Uplands Golf Club.

  • Sue Chudleigh

    Pam and Family,
    It’s with a heavy heart I send my heartfelt condolences on Chris’s passing. I watched him play, coach and attend so many Shamrock games over the years, and it was always a highlight to bump into him there, chat about the team, and get the latest rock report. His laugh is something I won’t soon forget, it was infectious. He was truly one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Pam, my thoughts and prayers are with you. May your memories together give you some peace during this most difficult time.
    Love Sue Moretti Chudleigh

  • Swannee

    My condolences Pam to you and your family. You and CH have created so many amazing memories. and you will have those forever. Great man, great coach and his legacy is huge. He will be missed but never forgotten

  • Barb and Greg Sailor

    Thanks for the memories, our heart goes out to you Pam.

  • Colin Mclean

    Pam, our thoughts are with you. Chris was a joy to be around. Victoria has lost a great man. May he rest in peace.

  • JOHN MILLS

    While I have not seen Chris since our senior basketball days in the 70’s, I followed his career with interest. I am sad for his family and friends who have lost a loved one. I am sad, too, that his massive contribution to sport has ended. May he rest in peace.

  • Elmer and Kathy

    There’s a lot of golfers that will miss Chris’s grin around the Uplands! He will be remembered for that and his great sense of humour!
    He fought a courageous battle.

  • Fred and Eleanor Pye

    Pam:
    Our thoughts are with you and your family in this difficult time. We are confident that the love you have for Chris will remain undiminished and that it will sustain you over time.

    Fred and Eleanor

  • Terri Fleck

    What can I say about Chris Hall that hasn’t already been said. …When he worked at BCBC he was the BEST boss ever! and I know that those who worked for/with him can contest to that….not only was he supportive, he was approachable…he knew that there was life outside of work and all the priorities that came with it. His priorities and passions were always his family, lacrosse and just people in general…amongst his and Pam’s busy life, they always made time to make an appearance or attend a gathering that was important to the inviteses…so thank you Pam for sharing your time with Chris, with others — everybody wanted a piece of him because he was truly one of the good guys, genuine to the core.

    Chris will be a fond memory to all those who crossed his path…. and I know he will continue to guide and lead others to their full potential and greater successes as he watches down upon us.

    My heart felt condolences to you, Pam and family…..you are now the living legend of the late great Chris Hall.

    Hugs Pam….Terri xo

  • Jason DEBAUN

    I was a season ticket holder for the Arizona Sting from 2005-2007. I first met Mr. Hall when he was with Calgary Roughnecks and they came up to the (then) Lexus Club for post game drinks and mingling with fans.

    I had a 1975 Boston Bolts program that he was in and when word got around to Mr. Hall I had it he wanted to see it and he immediately signed it for me and started talking about the “old days.” He had also signed my 2004 Roughnecks Locker Room Champions shirt also.

    Now, I never picked up a lacrosse stick, but Mr. Hall will always be in my thoughts forever because after those meetings, he always had a bear hug for me, and more often than not, it was from behind. When I’d see the arms, I knew who it was. He also had a smile that could light up the night sky, nevermind whatever room he was in.

    Godspeed, Chris.
    Jason DEBAUN
    Glendale, AZ

  • Steve cluney

    Our thoughts go out to you at this sad time.
    I was very lucky to get to know Chris when he coached the England Indoor team, it was a privilege and an honour. He taught us all so much and immediately made everyone feel at ease. I will miss him next year in Buffalo. English Lacrosse and everyone who met him will miss him dearly.
    Steve cluney

  • Ric and Shirley Bains

    Hi Pam,
    Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. So many good stories many have to share. I especially admired CH’s leadership qualities and his competiveness to succeed. Whether it was when he played or when he coached it was always with full commitment. He made others around him better. He has done so much for lacrosse and will be greatly missed.
    Thinking of you and all the good memories,
    Ric and Shirley

  • Joe Dawson

    I am from the east. Chris was so wonderful to me allowing me to stay with Pam and himself at their lovely residence in Victoria.
    I was able to watch the game he loved as my boys played for the Shamrocks. I was made to feel so welcome and warm. As our paths crossed many times, he always had time to converse with me. I am really sad that he is gone because he was always a leader and I have learned from him.
    You are a superb individual and coach and my boys always looked up to you. Thank you for being the person you are and thank you for being Chris. My family will never forget you.

  • Helen fitzpatrick

    Hi Pam and family
    I did not know Chris well but,Iam thinking about you all and I know your pain , but for me it is just one day at a time, some day when we get past our pain we will remember the good years that we had with our loved ones ,.Pam condolences to you and your family Deborah’s mom Helen

  • Annette Wall

    Pam and family, my thoughts are with you. Chris was a true leader in all he did. Much love,

    Annette

  • Spider and Susan Gains

    Pam,
    Chris was a remarkable man who could always make us feel welcome and like true friends.
    As many have said Leon was a leader in what ever he laid his hand to, Chris has again shown us the way to accept challenges head on with dignity and grace, leading the way for us all to follow.
    Chris’ life was well lived but way too short and his passing is a huge loss to us all.
    We hope your memories of Chris and your time with him will comfort you in the days ahead.

    Our deepest sympathies go out to you and all of the family,

    Mike and Susan Gains

  • Grant and Gail Boland

    Hi Pam, Gail and I are thinking of you and your family. I have some great memories of Leon. (sorry have never quite been able to call him Chris)! As a youngster in Junior High I watched him play for the Chinooks at Central Jr. as well as at Oak Bay. Of course later was lucky enough to play with him for the Scorps and Data Tech. He was always good to me as the young guy and rookie and treated me as if I was just one of the boys. I have never forgotten that. We loved his laugh, his stories and his compassion. I am lucky to have known and played with him.
    GB

  • Dave Morgan

    Grew up with ‘Leon’ His dad always gave us jobs over xmas at the Post Office! Thats another story. I remember him for many things and many stories. One that always sticks out in my mind is a Football story! Victoria Dolphins! Every game and I mean every game the FIrst Play was ALWAYS Karpiuk to Hall, long. Leon would sprint as fast as he could down the field and Ter would drop back and launch the bomb. I would say it worked most of the time.
    There are lots more of these! Remember the good things, life is much better!
    RIP!
    Mugs

  • Donna Anderson

    Pam and family…heartfelt condolences.
    A star is shining brightly now in the night sky.

  • JimCain

    To Pam and the family
    My heart goes out to all of you during this difficult time.
    As you know Chris was a very special friend to me
    He always treated me like Gold and I was so happy to see him when ever he came to visit me at the rink.
    I was so proud to be his trainer and friend all these years when ever he needed me to.
    I’m looking foreword to his celebration of life so we all can share his memory together
    I know how much Chris loved you Pam and his family as well.
    And I know during your relationship with CH
    Pam, you both had great fun and lived your lives together to the fullest every day with love and passion.
    I will miss CH tremendously and his memory will be with me forever in my heart.
    Take good care of yourselves.
    Hugs from DT

  • Bev and Gerry Smith

    Dear Pam and family:

    Chris was simply a wonderful guy! He will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. Although no longer here in body – his spirit will live on. Rest in peace Chris, your battle is over.

    Pam, we hope your many wonderful memories of your time together will sustain you in the difficult weeks and months ahead.
    Love, Bev. & Gerry

  • Cliff and Helen

    Our thoughts are with you Pam and to all of those that are a part of Chris’s family. He will be missed by many.

  • Rob and Candy Hopkins

    Our world has lost an amazing person – Chris who gave so liberally of his time, talents and humanity . . . to so many people and to so many worthy pursuits!

    Chris’ family and extended family all loved and adored him! Our family will keep them in our hearts and prayers during this very sad and difficult time . . . and in the lonely months ahead.

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