Timely Filings Were Always Charles Mandel’s Priority

Charles Mandel was a man who defied expectations in every aspect of his life. Standing short in stature but larger than life in his personality, he was quick with a joke, often lightening even the most serious of situations with his sharp wit and love for puns. His humor, however, was just one facet of the multifaceted individual he was. In his professional life, Charles was well-known for his blend of professionalism and personality, being cordial and approachable with communications professionals while maintaining a direct, no-nonsense attitude with those he interviewed. As a senior writer at BetaKit for nearly three years, Charles demonstrated a relentless commitment to his craft, never missing a deadline—sometimes even if it meant taking an unorthodox approach to his work. This relentless drive often led him to push boundaries, creating stories that were as unique as he was, and sometimes driving his editors to the edge with his adventurous methods.

Tragically, Charles passed away one year ago at the age of 64 after a tough battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence and inspire those who knew him. In honor of his memory, BetaKit has dedicated this space to remembering not just his work, but also the larger-than-life personality that made him such a unique figure in Canadian journalism. Through this tribute, we reflect on the way Charles balanced the demands of professional journalism with his personal passions and his fierce dedication to his work.

A lover of the outdoors, Charles lived in the heart of Nova Scotia, where he embraced a lifestyle that was as rugged as it was free. An avid mountain biker, marathon runner, and outdoorsman, Charles thrived in the wild, living off the grid. His property, nestled in the remote beauty of Nova Scotia, became a sanctuary where he could disconnect from the fast-paced digital world. It was in this serene and isolated environment that he chronicled his experiences on his Substack, Tales from Beyond the Grid. Despite the occasional frustrations caused by spotty internet service in such a remote location, Charles managed to keep his work on track, delivering quality journalism without interruption. He seamlessly balanced his adventurous lifestyle with his professional commitments, and his colleagues often enjoyed amusing guest appearances from his many animals—dogs, horses, donkeys, and a host of other creatures who made their home on his acreage. These lively interruptions during virtual team meetings were a reminder of Charles’ deep connection to the natural world and the unorthodox but lovable way he approached life.

Charles’ career in journalism spanned five decades, and throughout this time, he became one of Canada’s most versatile and respected journalists. Born to a family of poets, Charles embraced the power of the written word from an early age, using it to build a career that saw him take on a wide variety of roles. From visual arts columnist to national news correspondent, from music journalist to climate reporter, Charles wore many hats throughout his life. His ability to move between genres, disciplines, and beats was remarkable, as he always brought a fresh perspective to each new role. His work was not confined to any one area; instead, he covered everything from business technology to literature, leaving a mark on a wide array of fields.

Charles’ bylines appeared in over 60 different publications, many of which are recognized as pillars of Canadian journalism. His writing graced the pages of Wired, Canadian Business, The National Post, The Globe and Mail, Maclean’s, Canadian Geographic, Quill & Quire, The Toronto Star, and a multitude of local and alternative weeklies. His diverse body of work reflected not only his journalistic talents but also his deep commitment to the craft. He covered the most pressing issues of his time, from national politics to technological innovations, and contributed to the cultural discourse in Canada with a rare blend of insight and wit.

Throughout his career, Charles earned numerous accolades and awards that recognized his exceptional talent and contributions to journalism. He received the prestigious National Magazine Award, the Kenneth R. Wilson Memorial Award, and two Prince Edward Island Literary Awards. His influence and impact were also felt at BetaKit, where his work played a pivotal role in the company winning the SABEW Canada Best in Business award for General Excellence. This recognition was a testament to the high caliber of his journalism and his invaluable contribution to the publication, which his colleagues dedicated to his memory.

Charles Mandel’s life and work continue to inspire those who had the privilege of working with him. His fearless approach to reporting, his wit and humor, and his unwavering commitment to his profession left a lasting legacy in Canadian journalism. His ability to balance the demands of modern-day journalism with a love for life outside the newsroom made him an unforgettable figure. Whether he was covering a tech startup or documenting his life in the wilds of Nova Scotia, Charles always brought a unique voice, a sharp mind, and a good deal of humor to everything he did. His loss is deeply felt, but his legacy, in both his work and his approach to life, will continue to influence and guide future generations of journalists.