Charles (Chuck) Mawer was born in 1917 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and grew up with his 3 siblings in Edmonton, Vancouver, and Calgary.
In 1936 Chuck started his business career as a chartered accountant articling student. He joined the Naval Reserve as a midshipman and continued his service to the end of the Second World War. As Chief Gunnery officer aboard the HMCS Haida, Canada’s most famous warship, Haida protected the English Channel and helped escort troop convoys to France on D-Day in June 1944. The Haida also patrolled the treacherous Murmansk supply route in northern Russia.
Chuck’s bravery at sea resulted in a mention in despatches. He received the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) in recognition of his performance before the enemy, having helped destroy seven German ships and one submarine. Commander Mawer left the Navy in 1945, retiring as the most decorated naval hero in Calgary and Alberta.
Chuck resumed his business career in Calgary, joining the Mannix Company in 1947, he then entered the investment business with Tanner & Company in 1951. He joined McLeod Young Weir in 1953, where he managed the Calgary office as Alberta Director.
In 1974, at 57 years of age, Chuck launched Mawer & Associates. Known today as Mawer Investment Management, the company is international in scope, managing over $77 billion in assets. Chuck’s belief was to “do the right thing” in all aspects of his business and personal life. This guiding principle continues to define how the company operates for its clients today.
Chuck retired in 1995 at the age of 78 and shifted his focus to philanthropic interests. As chair of the Alberta Naval Museum, he helped raise funds to ensure the museum became a meaningful and impressive addition to the Calgary community. In 2001, as a patron for the Sharing Our Military Heritage Campaign, Chuck helped raise $15 million for the Naval Museum to move to new facilities at the Military Museum site.
In 2019, Valour Canada awarded Chuck the General Sir Arthur Curry Award in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the Canadian Navy. His legacy continues to inspire new generations.
Chuck was a respected naval leader, an accomplished officer, and a true gentleman. As a steadfast mentor, he inspired respect and loyalty from those who knew him. Above all, Chuck was a fun guy at heart and a dedicated family man. He declined the role of the commanding officer of HMCS Tecumseh twice due to family commitments.
Chuck passed away in 2006. He believed his proudest achievement was his 4 children, 7 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. His wife of 62 years, Mary (Nibs) passed away in 2002.
Chuck was a member of the Calgary Petroleum Club, the Ranchmen’s Club, and The Calgary Golf and Country Club. He also supported the Developmental Disabilities Resource Center.
https://calgaryherald.remembering.ca/obituary/charles-mawer-1065640911
