Charles Laking
![]() | This article needs additional citations for verification. (April 2014) |
Charles Laking | |
---|---|
Born | February 21, 1899 Campbellville, Ontario, Canada |
Died | November 26, 2005 Toronto, Ontario, Canada | (aged 106)
Nationality | Canadian |
Occupation | soldier, businessman |
Charles Clarence "Clare" Laking (February 21, 1899 – November 26, 2005) was, at age 106, one of the last surviving Canadian veterans of the First World War. At the time of his death he was believed to have been the last surviving Canadian veteran of the war to have fought on the front lines.
He was born and raised in Campbellville, Ontario, and defied the wishes of his Methodist father when he joined the Canadian field artillery in 1917. He served as a signaller on the front lines in France for two years. He received the French Légion d'honneur and a Golden Jubilee Medal.
After the war, Laking worked in lumber until 1941, when he took over Danforth Wallboard and Insulation Ltd. He ran the company until his retirement in 1965. In his old age, he led an uncommonly active life. He went to every Toronto Maple Leafs game until he was 100, drove until he was 102, and walked a mile a day.[1]
Laking was married for many years to his wife Helen, who died in 1993. They had two children, Keith and Sheila.[1] He died in Toronto at the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre at the age of 106. In addition to his son and daughter, Laking was survived by four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.[1]
References[]
- ^ a b c Oliver, Myrna (December 3, 2005). "Charles Laking, 106; One of Last 5 Canadian Veterans of World War I". Los Angeles Times.
External links[]
- Canadian military personnel of World War I
- Recipients of the Legion of Honour
- Canadian Methodists
- People from the Regional Municipality of Halton
- Canadian centenarians
- Men centenarians
- 1899 births
- 2005 deaths
- Canadian military personnel from Ontario
- Canadian military personnel stubs