One of my favourite professors ever. I’m so sorry to hear of this news, I was just reading over a poem that I wrote for his English class that I remember he was impressed with, and for the life of me I couldn’t understand why. He saw things in me that to this day I can’t comprehend, however, I’m so thankful for his impact and making me feel more confident in my writing. He is so dearly missed, thank you Chris, for all you have done and continue to do.

I was just emailing Chris and the email bounced back. I cannot believe this - Chris was such a sincere and brilliant man. I will miss him and send my condolences to beautiful family and young kids. This is unbelievable. Chris supported me in a job that I was applying to at ACAD University and was the real deal who understood the politics of his institution - and kind of shared those with me in the process. He really wanted to get some of his highly idiosyncratic and important writing out in the world, and I had helped him to find a publisher (not that he needed my help). I hope someone is working on getting his work published into a book. Asher Ghaffar

Chris was such a phenomenal teacher and mentor. I remember his infectious enthusiasm in literature and philosophy, and was so encouraging.

Never before or since has someone challenged their students with a smile while singing into his microphone pencil.

Rest well sir

Portrait of Christopher circa 2007 for teacher appreciation

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Soo sorry to hear of Chris's passing. Such a happy, kind, caring, cool guy. Enjoyed his visits to the Library always smiling and kind and joking. He will always be a shining light in this world. Love to, Renate, Benjamin, Isabella, and Danica: blessings to you all. <3

I remember during class when Chris blew his nose, then with a grin on his face, asked the class if it would be gross if he put it back in his pocket. He then slowly put it into his pocket, eliciting a response from the entire class, grinning. Everyone laughed along with him in the end.

We are so sorry to hear of Chris’s passing. I have many fond memories of the times our families got together when we were kids and all the trouble we would get into. There was truly no one like Chris with his unfailing optimism, kindness and joy for life. Our deepest sympathies to the Frey family. All our love, Grant and Kathy.

Chris was exemplary in all that he did, recognizing that life was art and art was life, and purposely blurring the boundaries because he seemed to know that such a place is where the energy burned with the clearest light. Early on he gave me a copy of his novel, which was both strange and perfect. In it he wrote, 'make it up, it doesn't matter, it probably happened anyway,' proving to me how much he believed in the power of art. We often chatted about Tennyson, and Iser's 'gap' and movies. As a professor he was singly consistently ethical and honest, having no tolerance for the foolishness, arrogance, or contradictions rife within academia. In this, he was like a lighthouse at the shore of a stormy sea and I, correction, we who knew him well admired him for not ever simply towing the line. One meets only one or two people like Chris in an entire lifetime and it was an honor to know him. The lessons I learned from him will remain with me. My deepest condolences to his family.

My deepest condolences to Chris' family, friends and colleagues. For many years, I had the pleasure of sharing an office at ACAD/AUArts with Chris. This proximity led us to collaborate between our classes, most notably resulting in exhibitions in the library. Chris' poetic depth was such a pleasure and one of his legacy. All our love, Mireille and Bill

We grew so used to seeing Chris and Sam walking around the neighborhood, and saying hi while they were in the yard walking by with Annie. We are so sorry to hear of this tragic loss. What a blessing to be able to spend his last days by his side. Our condolences and love to your whole family.

Your neighbours Lindsay, Matt and Annie

What can you do but hold your hand out in the dark? - Ursula K. le Guin, “Nine Lives”

The above is the opening to one of Chris's reports to the AUArts Faculty Association. Chris continually and persistently ensured that art and poetry permeated every part of our institution, most noticeably bureaucracy. Chris was a key member of the AUArts Faculty Association prior to my tenure on the Board. In 2016, he chaired the Negotiations Committee, which required significant diplomacy. He continued as Grievance Advisor until early 2023. Even the most formal interactions were peppered with sensitive reminders that those he was addressing transcended the positions they occupied. He thought of and treated others as complex beings in unique situations, all deserving respect and dignity. His presence is missed but his example will have a lasting impact.

I grew up with Chris Frey, and I say with certainty that he was the best of the neighbourhood kids.

There were many children on Touchwood Drive when we were growing up, and there were always hijinks afoot. When Chris was around, the hijinks were higher, the adventures more epic and the plots more fully flowered, He was lively, charismatic and his eyes sparkled with the magic of imagination. It was breath-taking to be swept up in one of his flights of fancy.

Chris and I encountered one another as young adults visiting our parents and caught up. He told me he was a proud Drama Nerd, and I told him I was too. We chuckled at how our lives twirled around and fulfilled the promise of our youth.

I can only smile to think of that boy who inspired and delighted me as a child. Chris Frey, surely, was one of a kind

I had the pleasure of working with Chris at AUArts and have many fond memories of our countless discussions, debates, and good laughs. Deeply curious and kind, Chris was a great teacher to all, not just to his students. I am grateful for his openness and optimism and caring so much about community. My heartfelt condolences to Renate and the rest of the family.

With deepest condolences to Renate, Benjamin, Isabella, and Danica: Chris was a most valued colleague at ACAD and was very passionate about providing the best experience for all students. His passing is a huge loss to the academic community and we are sending condolences to his work colleagues and close friends as well as to his family. — Elaine Prodor and John Hyde

I've known Chris for ten years at least. He always brightened my day with his uplifting character. I'll miss him and his ability to shine and bring that out of others.

This is such sad news. Chris and I met over 40 years ago, spending the summer of 1983 doing basic training at Mewata Armories as part of the SYEP program. He was such a great guy to be around, with a wonderful sense of humour and we became good friends during that summer. Unfortunately we lost contact as we each went our own ways. I was happily surprised in the past few years, to hear that he was an instructor for english classes my son was taking at the University of Arts. I thought there would be lots of time to get back in touch.

My deepest condolences to his family and friends.

My sincere condolences to family, will always remember Chris’s great sense of humor.

Trevor Duff

Ottawa ON

We were so sorry to hear of Chris’s untimely passing. Although we have lost touch over the years, we shared many wonderful times with our families together and so many interesting and engaging conversations. Our very best wishes and condolences to Renate and family. Ardith, Terry, Emma and Kate

It is with such sadness we read of Chris.

I have wonderful memories of attending English Literature classes with Chris & Renate at the University of Calgary.

What an incredibly talented individual he was even back then.

Our sincere condolences.

Linda & Emil Vick

My condolences to his family.

Mike Leesman

Chris was an amazing and understanding teacher. He made learning fun and his passion for knowledge was magnetic. I'm glad I had the opportunity to be in his class. Thank you Chris. My sincere condolences.

From the many conversations we had, I know how much Chris cherished his family -- I offer my profound condolences to Renate, Benjamin, Isabella, and Danica.

Chris and I shared an office at the art college for the better part of 15 years. He was an original thinker in the best possible ways; kind; compassionate; funny; fun; yet also serious; insightful; fair-minded. And of course, a brilliant teacher.

Befriending Chris has been among the greatest privileges of my life; I am a better person for having known him. The world is a better place for having had Chris in it.

I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Chris briefly at what was then the Alberta College of Art and Design. He truly was “humble, patient, courteous and kind.” All with a wonderful sense of humour. A great loss to all of us.

Chris was my dad (Stephen Harris)'s best friend growing up. We had gatherings with our families often in my childhood. A particularly fond memory is when Chris, Renate and my sister Kaitlyn and I played soccer at Riley Park shortly before they moved to Montreal. We had so much fun. Even as a young child, I could sense that Chris was genuinely interested in what we had to say as young kids. He treated us with respect and enjoyed conversing with us. As I grew up, it was obvious how much he loved both teaching and learning. He was so kind, funny and thoughtful. Sending much love to his beautiful family.

I first met Chris in junior high and we developed a friendship. His quick wit and sense of humour will be missed. I was so thankful that he made the effort to attend our 40th high school reunion given his condition. Even though we lost touch after our post secondary education I was proud to call Chris a life long friend. I will miss the Frey guy, my nickname for him. Condolences to all his family members. RIP

Chris, I remember growing up with you in grade school, at Diefenbaker High. Seeing you at the reunion last June was just like old times. Chris I’ll always remember your kind heart and caring smile . God bless my friend.

Rest in peace

Jay Richardson

I have known Chris since junior high school and appreciated his keen wit, kindness and warmth. He was someone who knew how to listen, laugh and just be present. I am so glad he came to our 40th reunion knowing now how difficult that was for him. My sincere sympathy and love to all of you. His impact on so many will not be forgotten…

Sherry Martens

I am truly heartbroken by this news. I've known Chris, and was proud to call him a friend, for what must now be close to 30 years. He was humble, and comported himself in a low key, but he really was a giant. Kids and careers have a way of taking us to different places, and while talking to one another every couple of weeks went to talking every couple of months, that went to every couple of years, few days still pass in a row where I do not recall something about him, and the little life lessons he never failed to share. Not a handful of days ago, because I am not like Chris (though I wish I were), I was feeling the swell of injustice and anger at having to spend three hours online trying to pay my car insurance in Montreal while in Rome, and then I remembered that completing these kinds of inane and seemingly meaningless tasks is what Chris, with his great way at making sense out of nonsense, used to call "life's small victories", and it felt a lot better. The world feels bitter and a lot dimmer today, but I am certain that Chris, with his ceaselessly searching and creative mind, would have connected his struggle, and ours at losing him, to something epic, mythic, and unforgettable.

Renate and Family,

Chris was such a special person. He was so humble, kind and loving - and his sense of humour! He truly lived by his motto. So very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you all ❤️

Chris was a such a kind and cheery person. So sorry to hear his light is no longer in this world. No doubt shining elsewhere. Sincere condolences to Renate, their children, and family.

I am very sorry to hear of Chris' passing. I only met him briefly a short time ago. However, I was struck by what a wonderful person he was and what a positive impact he can have on others in such a short period of time. I offer my sincere condolences to Renate and family.

My deepest condolences to Chris’s family and friends. So sorry to hear of your loss. I found Chris to be a brilliant, creative, kindhearted man. He spoke fondly and lovingly about his wife and children. Chris will be missed.

I am so sorry to hear of Chris' passing. I worked for the then ACAD Faculty Association for ten years and it was always a pleasure to work with Chris. He brought humour and lightness to meetings and conferences. Always bright, creative and funny. He will be missed by the entire arts community. Hugs to Renate, Benjamin, Isabella and Danica, he loved you all so much and spoke of you often.

In my first days at AUArts, Chris said it was "imperative" I meet with him, and when we did, he told me, "This is how the world works here and this is what I expect of you." I knew then that Chris was a notable character deserving of respect, and his wisdom worth the world. He and I would regularly have conversations without flies on the wall, of course always including a laugh or two. To the students he taught, you should know how much he felt it was his honour to teach you. To fellow colleagues, know that Chris loved this place and all the people...him joking "most people". My condolences to all his loved ones -- what a gem he must have been in your lives.

Chris has been a long time friend of my brother Steve Harris. While I might have met Chris perhaps 3 times in my life he left an enduring memory. Chris played a big part in a sad time for me - the death of my dad in 1988. My brother was to be married a week after my dad died and Chris seemed to be around our house during that time - wedding activities are just being there. That period of time is a blur with few memories but I always remember Chris and my brother washing the car that week.

I was very sad to hear of his illness and now his passing. he is a great man with great memories attached for everyone who knew him.

Sending love and light to the Frey family. I was a colleague of Chris’s while I taught in the photography department at AUArts. He was always kind. I loved his creative spirit and the way he moved through life. He enriched my life and I will miss him. ❤️

Chris and I met almost thirty years ago as graduate students and later were teaching colleagues and office mates. He was the best colleague I ever had, and I just loved him. Renate and the children made him the happiest of men, and I'm sending great affection to you. What shattering news.

Deepest condolences to Renata and family! I had the privilege and pleasure of working with Chris at AUArts. He was a wonderful, smart, sensitive and brilliant person. I’m so sorry for his passing. May his memory be a blessing.

Deepest condolences to his family and friends. I took several literature classes from Chris during my degree at ACAD 1995-1999 and he was a bright light and a vibrant soul who left an indelible impression on many of us. I will hold you all and Chris close in thought . He will be missed.