Charles Anthony ("Tony") Sharman

Dr. Charles Anthony ("Tony") Sharman, January 14, 1932 – December 24, 2024

With sadness, we announce the passing of Dr. Charles Anthony (“Tony”) Sharman, in his 92nd year, in Toronto, Ontario. Pre-deceased by former wife and life-long friend, Frances (“Frankie”) Sharman. Loving father of Melanie Sharman Rowand (Fraser) of Toronto, Ontario and the late Lesley Sharman of Brampton, Ontario. Proud grandfather of Mandi Sharman, Sarah Rowand, Katie Rowand and Charlotte Rowand. Survived by sisters Diane Maley (Gord) and Barb Christou (Vic) and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tony was born in London, England in 1932, where his childhood was shaped by WWII. His father, Charles Frederick Sharman, enlisted in the British Army and died around the battle of El Alemain. His mother, Emily Florence (nee Brown), worked as a firewatcher for the fire brigade during the bombing of London. Tony and his cousin were sent to live with an aunt in the countryside for several years, to escape the bombing. Tony’s mother remarried a Canadian soldier, Robert Colwell Armstrong, who became a loving stepfather to Tony. The family relocated to Calgary, Alberta, where Tony’s sisters were born. 

Tony obtained his PhD in English Literature from the University of Toronto and was an English professor at Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie for about 20 years before retiring to Vancouver and then Toronto. He was an avid supporter of the arts and loved theatre, film, classical music and hiking.

A scholarship and bursary fund has been established in Dr. Tony Sharman’s name at Algoma University. There will be no service at Tony’s request. A memorial video is being prepared in celebration of Tony’s life.