Christopher Ondaatje traded finance for passion and put family in focus

Christopher Ondaatje, a man whose life spanned nearly a century and touched upon countless fields, from finance to literature, music to exploration, passed away on July 20 at the age of 93. His death marked the end of a remarkable journey that saw him transition from a self-made millionaire to a devoted family man, leaving behind a legacy that encompassed both personal and professional achievements. Ondaatje was born in Sri Lanka in 1933, during a time when the island nation was still known as Ceylon under British colonial rule. He came from a distinguished lineage, tracing his roots back to a Brahmin physician named Ondaatje who served in the court of Tanjore in present-day Tamil Nadu, India. This heritage, combined with his early life experiences, shaped the trajectory of his life. In the mid-1940s, Ondaatje attended Blundell's School in England. However, his education was cut short when his mother informed him in 1950 that he would need to leave due to financial difficulties. The decline of the Ondaatje family fortune was largely attributed to the alcoholism of his father, Mervyn, who passed away in an accident shortly thereafter. This upheaval forced Ondaatje to grow up quickly and take charge of his future. His mother, Doris Gratiaen, relocated to England with two of his younger siblings, Michael and Janet, while his sister Jillian remained in Sri Lanka. As the eldest child, Ondaatje took it upon himself to rebuild the family's financial standing. He began working in banking in London at the age of 17 before deciding to seek opportunities abroad. In 1956, he moved to Canada with just $13 in his possession, which equates to approximately $150 in today's currency. Arriving in Canada, Ondaatje was initially unimpressed with the landscape. He recalled standing at Montreal’s Pier 26, looking out over the bleak scenery after an eight-day journey. Yet, despite these initial impressions, he soon found his footing in the new country. His determination and resilience led him to success in business, eventually becoming a self-made millionaire. Beyond his accomplishments in finance, Ondaatje pursued numerous passions throughout his life. He was an accomplished musician, a painter, a writer, and even an explorer. His contributions extended into the arts, where he left an indelible mark through his creative endeavors. He authored several books, including works that reflected his diverse interests and experiences. Ondaatje's commitment to family was evident throughout his life. His son, David Ondaatje, a filmmaker based in California, shared memories of his father’s dedication to creating art and maintaining connections within the family. “He was always making something,” David remarked. “Every Christmas, we would receive a new film he had created over the summer.” Ondaatje's influence reached far beyond his immediate family. His work as a businessman, artist, and writer inspired many, and his legacy continues to resonate with those who knew him. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the importance of family.