Chad Kentner
July 9, 2022
On July 9th, 2022 a bright light went out in the world when Chad Kentner, age 47, suddenly and tragically passed away.
Chad was recovering in hospital from brain surgery (June 13th) that successfully removed a benign tumour. While there were setbacks in the weeks after surgery, most recently he’d progressed well and seemed to be on the road to what was a steep but not insurmountable recovery. Chad accepted the challenge of recovery head-on and was eager to work hard, with every effort bringing him one step closer to going home to his family. It was during a therapy session that Chad suddenly experienced a collapse and despite all efforts, could not be revived.
To know Chad even a little was to know he was a very good man. He was a sensitive and caring husband to Julie Kentner (nee Harford), his “beautiful wife Julie” as she is aptly named in his cell phone. He was a kind, attentive and enthusiastic father to his two boys Jax (12) and Ryder (10), whom he absolutely adored. He was also an excellent petter of his dog Loki and cat Pyper. With Julie by his side, they created a world for their boys to thrive where Chad encouraged any interests the boys might have, and openly shared with them his passions; successfully passing on his love for music and hockey. It was obvious that Julie and the boys were the centre of his universe.
Chad was born and raised in Guelph, Ontario by, Carol Kentner (nee Buck) and the late Garry Kentner, parents he much loved and respected. He was an inquisitive child, who was bright, studious and focused. Growing up he was always a quiet leader and rule follower and watched over his sister Jaime Porcellato (nee Kentner), making sure she flew straight.
In his youth, Chad’s first job was at Pizza Hut, which he liked because he could bring his work home and eat it. He moved to London to pursue a degree in Kinesiology at Western University and worked as a work study student who was eventually hired on. Not long afterwards, Chad found his way to policing after having his garage pillaged and his music equipment stolen. It was that experience that sparked an interest in policing, and as was his nature once he put his mind to something, there was no stopping him. He was very proud and honoured to become a member of the London Police Service where he started as a Constable in Uniformed Patrol. Later he worked in Major Case Management, as well as the Sexual Assault Section where he was the Sex Offender Registry Coordinator. He then transferred to the Forensic Identification Section as Detective Constable Specialist. He was an expert in fingerprint identification, a team leader/pilot of the RPAS Unit (He flew drones.), and a member of the Explosives Disposal Unit where he was a trained bomb technician. Sadly, he never did track down his music equipment.
Chad was a man of many talents, all of which he pursued with a passion but none more so than music. Given his first drum at age one, it cannot be underestimated the importance of music in Chad’s life. He was extremely well rounded regarding musical genres, playing in cover bands, and writing original music. He was also quite athletic in his youth, participating competitively in a variety of sports with hockey being his first love. Then there were his varied interests, which ranged from trains to cameras to typewriters. Yes, you read that correctly. But his underestimated talent was his gift of listening. Chad only talked when he had something to say and when he had something to say, you listened. And when Chad met Julie, he had something to say!
A mutual friend introduced Chad to Julie, and they were immediately taken with one another. It wasn’t long before they bought their first house and tied the knot, combining their two families. Larger families on both sides meant that Chad was the nephew, cousin, uncle, and brother-in-law to an army of people, who loved him very much. He was also a very good friend to many work, music and school buddies.
Chad’s presence, his listening, words, wisdom, enthusiasm, music, friendship, smile, laugh and most of all his love, will be missed by all he knew. He was a friend to all. The best of fathers and the most wonderful husband.
Please join us in celebrating Chad’s life. Visitation at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Thursday, July 14th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and again from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The funeral will be held on Friday, July 15th at NorthPark Community Church, 1510 Fanshawe Park Road East, London, at 11:00 a.m. A police escort will arrive at the church at 10:45 a.m., and you are welcome to arrive early to participate in this honour. Those wishing to donate in memory of Chad may do so to the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. A livestream is available to those wishing to participate upon request, please contact Westview Funeral Chapel at 519-641-1793 for more information.
Leave a tribute for Chad Kentner
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A donation has been made to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Message from the donator: Deeply sorry for your unimaginable and painful loss, Julie! We will be praying for you as you strive to carry on. Hugs from Abbey too.
I knew Chad from going to school together at St. John’s up to grade 4! That long ago & I still remember how nice he was. He was always smiling! He used to spray me with his ice hockey shavings when he sped around the rink and would stop short in front of me! So funny! I’m so sorry to hear of his sudden passing & send my prayers & my condolences to his entire family & extended family & friends!
A donation has been made. Message from the donator: We were saddened to hear of Chad's passing. Our hearts go out to Julie and their wonderful boys. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. ❤️
Sincere sympathy to you Julie and your family.
I worked in finance department in LPS and had the opportunity to meet Ched and assist with his claims. He always had a warm smile on his face. He is very kind and easy to talk to. Rest in peace, Ched. Sincere condolences.
Chad will be a great loss for so many. I didn't work closely with Chad but when he came to talk to me recently about an LPS project, it was such a pleasure. He was very respectful, supportive and appreciative, one of London's finest. Sincere condolences to Chad's family. May God bless.
Saddened to hear of the loss od Chad so young. Just a nice guy whenever we crossed paths at 601 and the community. My thoughts are with his family.
A donation has been made to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Message from the donator: “A warm smile is the universal language of kindness” -Willam Arthur Ward My deepest condolences Julie, Jax, Ryder and family. I was lucky to have worked with Chad for many years. Always kind and professional. The love for his family was evident. Wishing you peace and comfort during this most difficult time and always 🙏🏼💗
A donation has been made to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada. Message from the donator: Chad will be truly missed. No words can express the sympathy we feel for Julie and the boys. Sean & Jennifer Wheatley and family
Although I didn't know Chad for very long, it wasn't hard to see his kind heart and fun spirit over the year that I knew him at the University of Western Ontario. I was a Soph, while Chad was a frosh at Alumni House back in 1995. Chad and I both shared the same program (Kinesiology) and the same floor (second west). I was so sad to hear of his passing, but was delighted to hear of his successful career, in addition to his beautiful family. I grabbed my yearbook from that year and smiled at some of the photos we were apart of. I quickly found the comment he wrote in my yearbook. He reminded me of how precious life is and to never take life for granted...take each day/moment as a gift. So sorry I didn't write, but I am confident that we will see each other again. God Bless, Jeff (Topper)
Julie,Jax and Ryder Our Thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult and sad time. We cannot digest the fact that we have all lost such a Wonderful , kind and thoughtful man. We will cherish our memories and keep close in our hearts!! We(Bill, and i, Kathy and Ken) have made a donation to the Brain Tumor Foundation on Chads behalf. Sending Love and hugs to all!!
It was a pleasure to have met Chad this past hockey season.My grandson Jules and Jax played on the same team.Chad always took the time to say hi and talk hockey with me.My thoughts and prayers to Julie , Jax and Ryder
I had the pleasure of working with Julie during her time at North Meadows. At this time, Julie was an incredibly hard working and talented educational assistant. We had the chance to get to know Chad during this time and we were fortunate enough to attend Chad and Julie’s beautiful wedding. Through your fun FB posts, we have so enjoyed watching your family grow over the years. The joy that you and Chad shared was so genuine and clearly lives on in your amazing boys. Greg and I are so deeply sorry for your loss and hope that you can find some comfort in knowing that for onlookers, your genuine love for each other and your children was a thing of rare beauty.
Chad and Julie and Jax and Ryder have been our much valued neighbours for many years❣️ We are grieving for all who were honoured to know and love Chad…. He was a kind and gentle man devoted to his loving family and we will miss him… Please accept out sincere heartfelt sympathy…may Chad rest in eternal peace 🙏🏻
Combination of serious and funny...that's Chad.
I met Chad and Julie as our kids both attended Northridge PS and Julie was a teacher there as well. I would run into their family at school events and at neighbourhood gatherings. Also, I would often see Chad at the hockey rink and we would talk about goalies as both our sons played in net. Our older son became the Kentner boys babysitter and our puppy and Loki became great friends. Chad would come out to chat about hockey and our kids when I would drop by. Chad was a kind and loving family man. He will be dearly missed in the Northridge community. My deepest condolences to Julie and the boys.
Julie, Jax and Ryder, We are so saddened to hear of Chad’s passing. He was a wonderful man and father, and we will cherish and honour the opportunity we had to have crossed paths with him. He will be forever missed. Remember that those we lose don’t go away, they stay with us unheard, unseen, each and everyday. Our deepest condolences, sending many hugs ❤️
A donation has been made. Message from the donator: My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time and always🙏 Much love❤️ Kelley
You will forever be in my heart❤️ You will be truly missed and so proud of who you were in life! Incredible man❤️
I met Chad at Alumni House rez at UWO when lived on the same floor. Chad was the person who schooled me about drumming. He also made me my cherished tape of The Police & Sting. I would still be playing it if I still could. I will remember Chad as an awesome person with a great energy. My deepest sympathy &condolence to his family.
I have worked and played in the London Police Pipes and Drums band with Chad for years. Funny how our conversations were never about work, but always about music and everything to do with drums and drumming. Chad was a kind and gentle soul and a great friend and co-worker. He will be deeply and sadly missed. Rest easy my friend and hopefully you will get a chance to jam with some of the drumming greats who've passed before you.
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Chad's passing. He was a kind and wonderful guy. My heart goes out to Julie and their boys. Rest in the sweetest peace Chad. You will be missed.
Our deepest condolences to your family during this very difficult time. We will continue to keep you all in our thoughts.
Our Condolences to Julie, Jax and Ryder. Chad was a gentle caring soul who will be missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all.
I met Chad in first year at the University of Western Ontario. He lived across the hall from me and we quickly became good friends. I remember him as a really kind, thoughtfull person with a great sense of humour and smile. Anyone who met Chad instantly liked him, it was hard not to. When I think of Chad, I think of music, drumming, mosh pits, hockey and the pride and love that he had for his sons and wife. Gone way to early yet he still left an indelible mark on the people who were a part of his life.
I worked for many years with Chad on One Section. It was true pleasure and honour to work with him. Chad always had time to chat when our paths crossed, either on the road or at 601. You will be truly missed. My deepest condolences to Julie, Jax and Ryder.
I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Chad. He was always a friendly and smiling face at LPS. He will be missed.
Although words cannot express how much we will all miss Chad, I can say I am grateful for having worked with him directly at LPS. He had a wonderful, quiet presence and always made you feel welcome and a part of the team. I worked with Chad closely while being trained in Ident and then while on the drone team. His wisdom and advice with music flowed through when I took up drumming lessons and he loved to hear about what music I was currently practicing. He always had a smile and hello for everyone and never a word of complaint. It was such a pleasure knowing Chad. My sincerest and heartfelt condolences to the families of Chad and Julie, you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Chad was truly a gentle soul with a quiet, confident disposition. It was a true pleasure and honour to work with him at the LPS. He brought a quiet confidence to his profession and his presence will truly be missed. My deepest condolences to Julie, Jax and Ryder.
Chad started with LPS shortly after I did and eventually we worked together on one section. Since then I had the pleasure of bumping into him in the hallways of 601 or at the arena when we both there for our boy’s hockey. Chad always had a smile on his face and a pleasant demeanour. You will be missed by everyone at 601 Chad. My thoughts and prayers go out to Julie and your boys.
I met my dear friend Julie, back in 1985 at Northridge Public School. We celebrated our tween and teenager years with many sleepovers, family trips and of course parties. Our twenties were a time of more parties, dancing, going to concerts and live bands. In 1998, a friend of Julie’s asked her to check out a band, as he wanted to set her up with the drummer. Our first reaction was, oh no not a drummer, he will be a wild crazy partier. Nothing was further from the truth. As soon as they met, we quickly realized Chad was sweet, quiet and thoughtful. A perfect guy for my friend and I knew this was it. Chad gave my best friend his heart, two beautiful boys, a loving home, and many amazing memories. You will be missed greatly, but never forgotten. Our love and thoughts are with you all. Kerry, Jason, Kara and Jayme Papple
They will always remind me of you. That's what you said when you gave them to me... Thank you.
So heartbreaking to hear of Chad’s passing. As his soph at Alumni house, I remember Chad as someone who was always smiling and walking around drumming a tune. It has been a long time since I last saw Chad in person, but he left a solid impression on me for sure, just like on those around him. RIP Chad, you will be missed.
August 2020 was the first time I met Chad at a spring hockey tournament in Brantford Ontario. His son Jax realized in the parking lot that he left some of his equipment at home in London. Game time was approaching and a mutual friend introduced us. Chad asked if Jax could borrow my son Ryders gear. I was shocked at how calm Chad was about the situation as many hockey parents would have reacted quite differently. Fast forward to September 2021, Chad and I both stood quiet and much more nervously than our kids as they both tried out for the London jr knights. Finally the goalie parent hockey stress was over!!! Jax and “my Ryder” were goalie partners!! Over the past year Chad and I bonded for countless hours at various rinks. If it was a 0700 hours goalie clinic or any other ice time, Chad was always my go to guy. We shared many passions together from music genres, Drums/percussion to of course were it all started, Hockey! We always sat or stood together to help relieve the “Goalie parent stress” when each other’s kids were in net. Chad my friend I am thankful for our time together you will be significantly missed!!
Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the rest of Chad's family. May you find strength in the sweet memories you have of Chad and may they also serve to give you comfort during this difficult time. Chad was an amazing person in every aspect and leaves behind an incredible legacy. He also continues to live on through those who love him dearly. We send our deepest love and most profound sympathy.
As an old schoolmate of Julie's, while we haven't been in touch in a long time, it is so evident that Julie and Chad brought such happiness to each other and their family. Our heartfelt sadness to all family and friends of Chad.
I worked with Julie for many years, both at Northridge and Cedar Hollow Public Schools. During that time, I had the pleasure of meeting Chad several times at staff functions and hearing about his love for music and the band that he played in. When Julie talked about Chad at work, you could tell how much she adored him and what a wonderful husband and father he was. Sending hugs, love and condolences to Julie and her boys.
I worked with Julie for the last four years at Cedar Hollow. She always spoke proudly and lovingly about Chad. Sending love, hugs and my deepest condolences to Julie and her wonderful boys.
I appreciated Chad’s taste and knowledge of music - not many at LPS share such a passion for music as we did. I enjoyed working with him on One Section from 2011 to 2015…..a hard and dedicated worker. My deepest condolences to Chad’s family and friends. He was one of the great members of the LPS and we will all miss you so much. Eric
I am so sorry for your loss Julie, Jax and Ryder. Julie, you two were such a beautiful couple and created a lovely family together. I loved watching Chad play with you in the early days of our friendship, and visiting with you and him and the kids when I was in town visiting. He was such a great dad, musician, and always so committed to his work. He will be missed by many. You are in the thoughts of numerous others at this time. Krista
Chad, you will be so missed by everyone. I'm sure your dad, papa and grandma were waiting with open arms. I know you are watching over Julie, your boys, your mom and you sister. Rest in Paradise Cousin Love from Kim, Michel and kids ❤️
Services for Chad Kentner
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
July 14, 2022 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
July 14, 2022 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Funeral Service will be held at:
NorthPark Community Church
1510 Fanshawe Park Rd E
London, ON N5X 4A3
July 15, 2022 11:00 am
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
A donation has been made to Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada.
~ Lynda & Gary Hannaberg