Colin Edward Wituik
June 8, 2014
With profound sorrow, we gather as a family, and community, to grieve the loss of our talented son Colin. In his 21 years, Colin impacted so many people within our own community, and in Toronto where he most recently lived. Colin faced difficult internal challenges as he struggled with depression and in recent months his family and friends walked this journey alongside him, supporting him in every way we could. In the end, depression took our son from us, on Sunday, June 8, 2014. Please find comfort in knowing that all that love could possibly do, was done. Colin possessed such intelligent wit and creative energy in equal measure and in the words of so many friends, he lived in a genuine “true-to-himself” manner, with a unique perspective and “no bullshit” attitude, which many around him admired and respected. Colin will be endlessly loved and held firmly in the hearts of many, most deeply by his parents Cheryl (Hunter) and Rick Wituik, and his brothers Chris and Tanner. He will be forever cherished by his grandparents, Linda and Walt Murray, Ted and Sheila Hunter, and Bill and Trish Wituik, and by his aunts, uncles and extended families. Colin will be remembered by many friends—including a very special friend, Lindsay MacLean—with whom he shared moments of great happiness. Colin is predeceased by his uncle, Mike Hunter (2010). Please join us as we celebrate Colin’s life. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 15th, from 2:00 – 4:00 and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, where a Celebration of Colin’s Life will be held on Monday, June 16th at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to CMHA Middlesex or St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund) in honour of Colin, would be greatly appreciated.
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(Donated to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund))
I didn't know Colin well, but I do know that my son Jack thought the world of Colin. He admired and respected his artistic talent and his great wit. Colin inspired Jack in his creative pursuits and he credits Colin for pushing him in his artistic endeavours. Jack has lost a treasured friend but he will never forget him. My deepest sympathies to Colin's family.
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
I remember Colin from 2012. We had 2 courses together in 2 different semester in our first year at OCAD; one being Drawing Translation, and the other Drawing: Visualization. I never got to really know him as I felt I could not keep up with his charm and wit. He always made an effort to speak with me though and with everyone as well which is the mark of an empathetic, perceptive, open and kind individual. I seldom meet people like that. I was looking around to see what had become of him in mid 2016. It was really rough to see that someone so vibrant and dynamic killed themselves. A few things happened at that point. I wrote a pretty long post on here and an anonymous OCAD page on facebook trying to describe my experiences with him, but I felt my short experience with him wouldn't do anything for anyone. I wondered why OCAD doesn't speak more about the suicides or deaths that happen to the students or faculty associated with OCAD - spreading experiences and the stories of people struggling with mental health is a needed direct approach. I wondered why people like that kill themselves and why cruel, vile people manage to endure. I realize now that it is always valid to read about how your son was viewed by the people around him. Maybe it makes it worse knowing how special other random people though he was now that he's gone. I hope I havn't imposed myself too much. I'll just post this instead of hoping I'll be better able to express myself next time. The only person I knew who wasn't a fan of Colin was our Drawing Visualization prof. They would have hilarious arguments during critiques. She didn't have a sense of humor..
I remember Colin from 2012. We had 2 courses together in 2 different semester in our first year at OCAD; one being Drawing Translation, and the other Drawing: Communication. I never got to really know him as I felt I could not keep up with his charm and wit. He always made an effort to speak with me though and with everyone as well which is the mark of an empathetic, perceptive, open and kind individual. I seldom meet people like that. I was looking around to see what had become of him in mid 2016. It was really rough to see that someone so vibrant and dynamic killed themselves. A few things happened at that point. I wrote a pretty long post on here and an anonymous OCAD page on facebook trying to describe my experiences with him, but I felt my short experience with him wouldn't do anything for anyone. I wondered why OCAD doesn't speak more about the suicides or deaths that happen to the students or faculty associated with OCAD - spreading experiences and the stories of people struggling with mental health is a needed direct approach. I wondered why people like that kill themselves and why cruel, vile people manage to endure. I realize now that it is always valid to read about how your son was viewed by the people around him. Maybe it makes it worse knowing how special other random people though he was now that he's gone. I hope I havn't imposed myself too much. I'll just post this instead of hoping I'll be better able to express myself next time. The only person I knew who wasn't a fan of Colin was our Drawing Translation prof. They would have hilarious arguments during critiques. She didn't have a sense of humor..
I remember Colin from 2012. We had 2 courses together in 2 different semester in our first year at OCAD; one being Drawing Translation, and the other Drawing: Communication. I never got to really know him as I felt I could not keep up with his charm and wit. He always made an effort to speak with me though and with everyone as well which is the mark of an empathetic, perceptive, open and kind individual. I seldom meet people like that. I was looking around to see what had become of him in mid 2016. It was really rough to see that someone so vibrant and dynamic killed themselves. A few things happened at that point. I wrote a pretty long post on here and an anonymous OCAD page on facebook trying to describe my experiences with him, but I felt my short experience with him wouldn't do anything for anyone. I wondered why OCAD doesn't speak more about the suicides or deaths that happen to the students or faculty associated with OCAD - spreading experiences and the stories of people struggling with mental health is a needed direct approach. I wondered why people like that kill themselves and why cruel, vile people manage to endure. I realize now that it is always valid to read about how your son was viewed by the people around him. Maybe it makes it worse knowing how special other random people though he was now that he's gone. I hope I havn't imposed myself too much. I'll just post this instead of hoping I'll be better able to express myself next time. The only person I knew who wasn't a fan of Colin was our Drawing Translation prof. They would have hilarious arguments during critiques. She didn't have a sense of humor..
There are many supporters in an artist’s life but none are more important, of greater significance, or more inspirational, then the muses of unconditional love -- family. To the family and all those closest to Colin, our hearts go out to you, and we thank you for sharing him, your masterpiece, with us. On behalf of the Advertising Program faculty at OCAD University, and myself, I offer our condolences with profound sadness.
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Colin's passing, he was a bright, creative and hard-working student who brought energy and humour to every class. He will be missed by his peers and instructors at OCAD University. My deepest condolences to his family.
I am personally saddened to hear about Colin, but wish to also express the shock and sympathy of those at OCAD University who became aware of Colin's passing just yesterday. Those who knew him remembered his creative and intelligent nature and his honest, brave approach to the challenges that he was presented in his life.
We are thinking of you and your family during this time of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, in the loss of dear Colin. Our deepest sympathy, Nancy & Gord Graham
Dear Cheryl, my deepest sympathies to you and your brave family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Rick, Cheryl, Chris and Tanner, there are no words that can express the loss of your son, brother. May Colins memory bring strength to you . With Heart, Mind and Soul, you are in our thoughts.
Dear Ted, Sheila and family, We were saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Colin. Sendng our sincerre sympathy. Bryan and Brenda
(Donated to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund))
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund))
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund))
(Donated to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund))
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund))
(Donated to St. Joseph's Health Care Foundation (Parkwood Hospital Fund))
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
(Donated to CMHA Middlesex )
Dear Cheryl, My deepest condolence to you and your family. May Colin rest at peace. Take care!
It was with deep sadness that I learned yesterday of Colin's passing. Although I did not have the pleasure of teaching Colin, I remember both him and Tanner from their days as students at Emily Carr and my heart goes out to all of you at this sad time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Rick & Cheryl; We were saddend and heartbroken to learn of the passing of your much loved son Colin There are no words to adequately express our deepest sympathies. May you find comfort in knowing that Colins struggles are now over, and peace in the love and support of your family and friends. We hold you in our thoughts and prayers at this sad and difficult time.
I remember Colin from elementary school at Emily Carr. I didn't know him very well, but he was always very kind. I'm so sorry for your loss and send my condolences to the whole Wituik family during this time.
We have been a witness to the strength and love within your family and we know all that was done to surround and support Colin through the years of his life. Please know that many tears have been shed together with your own at such a tremendous loss. With profound sympathy and much love to all of you.
I was most sorry to learn of the passing of your son. Please accept my most sincere condolences.
Cheryl, Rick, Chris, and Tanner There aren't enough words to really express how very sorry we all are for the devastating loss of your son and brother, Colin. Our hearts go out to all of you. Cherish the wonderful memories you have of better times and stay strong for each other. Rest in Peace Colin.
I am so very sorry to hear about Colin 's passing. I had the very special privilege of teaching him at Emily Carr. His sense of humour was contagious and he was a wonderful role model for other students. I will always remember the "Colin and Colin " shows at our annual oral communications festivals. He will be so deeply missed. I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers in this time of grief.
Rick, Cheryl, Chris, Tanner and family: We were so sorry to hear of your loss of Colin. Please know our thoughts are with all of you.
Words cannot express the great sadness, shock and heartache the news of Colin's death has brought to all that have known him. The strength, courage and openness you have shown in sharing Colin's struggles has been inspiring and the loss of him will impact all of our lives forever. I pray for continuing strength and courage for you Rick, Cheryl, Chris and Tanner and that in time, you all find the comfort and closure necessary to help each of you cope with this tragic loss. I didn't get a chance to know Colin as an adult but the memories I have of him as a little boy are forever etched in my heart as a very loving and compassionate soul. His smile and laughter was infectious and he was loved so incredibly well by all that knew him. I pray that he has found the peace he so well deserves. On behalf of myself and my dad, we send our condolences to the entire family during this time.
I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Colin and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time. I had the great pleasure of teaching and working with Colin at Emily Carr P. S. I will never forget the contributions he made to our school, with his participation in school events, assemblies, our daily announcements and especially the unforgettable performances as MC for the Junior Oral Language Festivals with his sidekick, Colin H. His humour, good nature, creativity and talent served as a very positive example for all the students and staff at E.C. Colin will be greatly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him at Emily Carr.
I am so sorry for your tragic loss. My thoughts are with you all during this very sad time. May you find comfort and strength from the support of family and friends.
To Rick, Cheryl, Chris and Tanner May you lean on your friends for strength and may knowing you are in the hearts and thoughts of others, help you and yours through this time of sorrow. It is with heartfelt condolences to the entire family
My heart goes out to the family. Colin, Brad and I were very close friends for quiet a few years, skateboarding, snowboarding (or skiing in Colins case).I am so sorry for your loss Rick, Cheryl, Tanner and Chris.
I want to send my deepest condolences. I was briefly in the Masters Social Work program with Cheryl. I never met Colin but he sounds like he was a wonderful man. My heart and thoughts are with you and your family.
Whenever I think back to memories of Colin from when I knew him in highschool, I think of him with a grin on his face. He and I were never close, but we hung out with the same group of guys, and although I can't say I ever really had the pleasure of getting to know him too personally, I always admired his quick wit and clever sarcasm, he always had such a witty sense of humor. I give my condolences to Colin's friends and family who are all grieving over the loss of such a talented, funny guy. I hope that he has found peace now.
Cheryl, I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your son. We prepare for the loss of our grandparents, our parents, but not for the loss of our children. My thoughts are with you, your family and Colin's friends as you journey through your grief.
Rick ,Cheryl , Chris and Tanner Our hearts ache for all of you as you go through this very sad time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
It is with heavy hearts that we reel from the shock of having lost Colin. Colin and Colin had stayed in touch, last talking two weeks ago. We are at a loss for words ... you are in our thoughts and in our prayers. We know not what else to say, except -- Rest In Peace Colin!
It is with heavy hearts that we reel from the shock of having lost Colin. Colin and Colin had stayed in touch, last talking two weeks ago. We are at a loss for words ... you are in our thoughts and in our prayers. We know not what else to say, except -- Rest In Peace Colin!
It is with heavy hearts that we reel from the shock of having lost Colin. Colin and Colin had stayed in touch, last talking two weeks ago. We are at a loss for words ... you are in our thoughts and in our prayers. We know not what else to say, except -- Rest In Peace Colin!
Rick,Cheryl,Chris & Tanner, It was so very sad to hear of sweet Colins death,words cannot be found to express our sympathy for you all in this enormous loss in your family. You are all in our thoughts, love from the Chakraburttys." Rest in peace dear Colin".
I am so sorry to hear about Colin's passing. Sharing his story will hopefully help others who are struggling. I shall be thinking of your whole family in the coming days. Good thoughts...good memories... Kathy Newnes former Emily Carr teacher
Cheryl, Rick, Chris and Tanner, May The love and support from friends , family, God and each other, help to ease your pain and find a special place in your hearts. Please know that you are thought of so highly by so many , your wonderful family, and you will all be in our thoughts and prayers. Your openness in talking about depression will hopefully start a dialog within Colin's circle of friends and family and beyond . it is far time that depression and anxiety be something we talk about and with compassion and open minds support one another . With love and much respect. Rest in Gods Loving care Colin.
To the Wituik family - Thank you very much for sharing the sad reason for the death of your son, and for telling the story of his struggle with depression. I do not know your son, but I am writing to assure you that your brave remembrance will help many others in their life struggles, whatever they may be. Depression is so difficult for others to understand, and you have done a great service in your honest approach. May your hearts be lifted knowing that your son is free from his struggles, even as the sadness of his loss is so real for you.
We are all so deeply saddened by Colin's passing and our hearts go out to your family during this difficult loss. We hope that the love of his family and friends will comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead. And although words are never adequate in moments like this, we remember Colin as wonderful young man and friend to Tasso during the Banting years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rick, Cheryl, Chris & Tanner, Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this very sad time. With deepest sympathy.
Rick, Cheryl, Chris & Tanner - Your loss is felt by so many people who love you dearly. Colin shall never be forgotten and by telling his story you are helping others who suffer. It's difficult for anyone who has not suffered as Colin did to understand what you as a family went through. My love to all of you.
My deepest condolences to the family. I was so saddened by the news of Colin's passing. Every time my son and daughter were with their good friend Colin I would hear laughter. I enjoyed joking around with Colin and really liked him, he had a unique and very funny sense of humour. When I worked on a fun holiday video about the company Colin took a special roll in it, he did much of the filming and contributed with ideas and acting. I will deeply miss this bright, funny and & lovely person.
Although we didn't have the opportunity to get to know Colin, we know that he would have been as warm and caring as our dear Uncle Bill and Aunt Trish. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and all of your extended family and friends in the time of this great loss and sorrow.
Dear Rick, Cheryl and family, I was so saddened when Jeffrey called with the very sad news. My heart aches for you all. I know Colin was loved my many and will be greatly missed by each and every person whose life he touched.
So sorry to hear of Colin's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this sad time.
We are devastated to hear about your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Colley Walley... you will never ever be forgotten! Remembering your smile and wit in the days to come will somehow give strength to those of us who are left to grieve. RIP sweet Colin...
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~ doug wituik