Charles “Chuck” William Dufton
April 24, 1959 - July 23, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles William Dufton, who passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital.
Born and raised in London, Charles, known to many as Chuck, was a beloved father, grandfather, partner, brother, coach, and friend. He is predeceased by his wife Wendy, his son Michael, his parents Catherine and William, and his mother-in-law Margaret.
He is lovingly remembered by his son Jordan, daughter-in-law Julie, and his cherished grandchildren Jack and Sadie. He also leaves behind his partner Liz, her son Jason, and his siblings David, Christine, Laura, and Rebecca. Charles will be dearly missed by his extended family, including David’s wife Sandy and their children Desmond, Siobhan, and Finley; Christine’s husband Jedd and their children Justin and Jessica; Laura’s daughter Emma-Lee; and Rebecca’s son Jacob. He is also survived by his father-in-law Dan, his sisters-in-law Heather and Carol and her husband Frank, along with their children Kyrie, Taymar, Gavyn, Gabriel, Eden, and Caedon.
Charles is best remembered by many in the community for his years of volunteer coaching with the London Junior Knights. With his late wife Wendy, he helped build and grow the U18 AAA program, guiding teams to multiple league and provincial championships and mentoring countless young athletes—many of whom went on to play at elite levels, including the NHL. His proudest coaching moment came in 2011 when his team won silver at the National U18 AAA Championships in St. John’s.
A devoted sports fan, Charles loved the Boston Bruins and San Francisco Giants, and was a lifelong athlete himself, involved in track and field, soccer, hockey, and softball. Known for his sense of humour, energy, and ability to connect with others, Chuck was truly the life of the party and a mentor to many.
Cremation has taken place. A private family ceremony will be held at a later date.
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I knew Chuck for many years. We loved to disagree on the ice (Mostly over my calls when I officiated his games) it’s with a heavy heart and a true sadness to hear about Chuck. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Chuck was a great coach and the hockey community will truly miss him.
I’m beyond saddened to learn of Chuck’s passing. He was a bright light for me in high school and I have so many fond memories. He was a very kind soul with a loving heart . Deepest condolences to the family and friends Chuck leaves behind. May your memories of Chuck bring you comfort . Fondly Susan Setterington
I am so sorry for your loss. Chuck was a wonderful man and coach! He was an inspiration to all the boys. He was committed to working with the hockey parents. It was very sad when Chuck and family lost Wendy. His passing is a loss to this community.🫶
Deepest sympathies and thoughts to your family at this very difficult time .
Our condolences to Jordan and the rest of the family. I spent a lot of time with both Wendy and Chuck over the years with the Junior Knights and was always impressed with their energy and devotion to their teams, the players and of course to Jordan and Michael.
My condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. An incredible man and an incredible coach. I had the absolute honour and privilege to play for Coach Chuck during the 2006-07 and 2007-08 seasons. These years are where some of my favourite hockey moments reside and Coach Chuck was a major part of those positive moments in time. Away from the rink, I’d often see him in the halls of my high school (STA) in his Coca-Cola uniform. He’d always pause his work and chat with me. I always genuinely enjoyed those little moments away from the rink. You will be deeply missed, Coach. Thank you very much for everything.
In my many years involved in minor hockey Chuck was one of the best people I worked with. Jordan and Chuck’s grandchildren should hold on to the memory that he helped so many at a critical age in their development , not just as athletes, but as young men. He made a difference and not many can say that.
I send my sincere condolences in this time of grief. The Bible promises that your loved one will soon live again on a beautiful paradise earth when death will be no more in John 5:28, 29 and Revelation 21:4.
Went to South with Chuck but was 2 years younger. Got to know while we both worked at Canada Dry in 1976. Great co-worker and showed the young guys the ropes. Also played hockey at Medway after the U18’s and visited often. He will be missed! David Hill
What can I saw about this amazing man, that I met many many years ago, one of the funniest guy in my teenage years, I have so many stories and memories. I am so glad that we got to know you Chuck, you are one of a kind. Taken away to soon, RIP you will be missed xo
Chuck , you will be missed my friend. In all my years of coaching , I don’t recall ever laughing so much during games as I did with you and Boothie ! Thank you for allowing me to coach with you during that season in your life when Wendy was in her last days . I will cherish the memories that were made with you and the great group of kids that we had that year. Rest easy and be good to the stripes that are with you in heaven :)
Ah, Chuck, we will meet again. I am sorry for the void you have left with many.
Condolences to the Dufton Family. Fortunate to play 2 years for Chuck with the U18s. A true player’s coach. Knew how to build a team. He had a one-liner for everything Alongside Wendy, they ran an incredible program and offered their free time to their community. Many men are better for it. He will be truly missed. Thank you for everything.
Chuck was a great friend and we had many laughs in our teen years and twenty’s. Charlie was a big music nut. Loved his rock and roll. Two songs come to mind, Rock mountain way. Joe Walsh. His crowd favourite YMCA. I had the honour being in Chuck and Wendy’s wedding party. Two great people . Gone to so. Sophie and my thoughts and prayers are with Jordan and family and the the rest of the Dufton family.
~ Larry Janes