20 August 2026 · 2026-08 newsletter
This tribute brings together a Schoenstatt remembrance and the St Dominic’s College testimony. Read together, they honour Chris Wilson’s faith, devotion to Our Blessed Mother, family life, music ministry and lasting contribution to the communities he served.
VALE MR CHRIS WILSON
By now most of you will have heard of the passing of Chris Wilson. He died early on Monday morning, 20th July. His family were with him as they had been during his struggle with cancer. The funeral Mass for Chris was held on Wednesday 5th August at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, Springwood.
The symbols placed on Chris’ coffin reflected the essential elements of his life: his commitment to our Blessed Mother, his love for his wife and family, his deep love for music and his desire to share it with others. His Rosary beads reflected his spiritual life. The chain with a crucifix and Schoenstatt consecration medal, which he wore daily, reflected his deep love for Our Blessed Mother and his early connection with the Schoenstatt boys’ groups.
Also on his coffin were his wedding ring, symbolising his deep love for his wife Julie and their five children; plectrums, expressing his love for music, which he shared to enrich the liturgical life of the Church, the education of students at St Dominic’s College and the Schoenstatt Family during the May Pilgrimage days; and an Edmund Rice Award, which he received in 2022 in recognition of his commitment to bringing the Gospel to life, especially through music.
Chris grew up in a Schoenstatt family. His parents, Barbara and Jack Wilson were members of the first Schoenstatt family Group, the Foundation Group. Chris was, during his early years, involved in many activities of Schoenstatt, especially as part of the boys’ groups.
For those who didn’t know Chris personally during those early days of Schoenstatt, will surely have seen him at many of the May Pilgrimages. For many years Chris brought the band from St. Dominic’s College, Penrith where he taught, to provide the music for the Pilgrimage Masses. In the later years, Chris and his family took over providing the music for the May Pilgrimage Masses as well as leading the singing. Chris was always at the Pilgrimage Masses until this year when his illness prevented him from attending.
Please keep Chris and his family in your prayers as they mourn the passing of their beloved husband, father and grandfather.
May he rest in peace.
Chris taught for many years at St Dominic’s College, Penrith. The following testimony from the school offers a fuller picture of his influence as a teacher, colleague, musician and faith-filled member of that community.
— Tribute from St Dominic’s College —
It is with great sadness that St Dominic’s College announces the passing of Mr Chris Wilson.
After having fought illness with exceptional courage and grace, Chris passed away peacefully yesterday, surrounded by his beloved family. Our hearts and prayers are with his wife Julie, children and grandchildren.
For three decades, Mr Chris Wilson has been an integral part of the St Dominic’s College community, dedicating his talents, passion and unwavering commitment to enriching the lives of thousands of students and staff through music, faith and service.
Commencing at the College on 15 July 1996, Chris played a transformative role in shaping the culture and identity of St Dominic’s. Through his leadership of the Music Faculty, he has inspired generations of young men to discover and develop their musical talents, fostering creativity, confidence, discipline and a lifelong appreciation of music.
His commitment to excellence has contributed to outstanding HSC achievements and the success of countless students who have gone on to pursue careers and lifelong involvement in music, many of whom proudly remain connected to the College as members of our alumni community.
Chris’ influence extended far beyond the classroom. Throughout his 30 years of service, he established and nurtured numerous ensembles, creating opportunities for students of all abilities to perform, collaborate and grow. His vision and dedication have seen the College host an extraordinary number of concerts, productions and showcase events, providing memorable experiences for students, families and the wider community.
A gifted composer and musician, Chris made an enduring contribution to the spiritual life of the College. Through the composition of original hymns and liturgical music, he has transformed the College’s liturgical celebrations, helping generations of students engage more deeply with prayer and worship. Each year, he composed a hymn inspired by the College theme, creating a unique musical expression of the values and aspirations that underpin the St Dominic’s community. These compositions became a defining feature of College Masses and liturgical gatherings, strengthening the connection between faith, music and community.
Chris’ deep understanding of Catholic tradition and liturgy has been instrumental in shaping the College’s Catholic identity. Through his leadership of music ministry, annual year-group singing sessions and countless liturgical celebrations, he fostered a culture of participation, reverence and Gospel-centred worship. His contribution in this area was formally recognised in 2022 when he was awarded the Edmund Rice Charter Leadership Award for Gospel Spirituality, a fitting acknowledgement of his profound impact on the faith life of the College.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chris was a trusted mentor, colleague and friend to staff and students alike. He possessed a rare warmth and quiet humour that immediately put people at ease, making everyone who crossed his path feel welcomed, valued and heard. Chris was a beautiful soul whose genuine kindness, gentle nature and humble presence drew people to him. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with others, offering encouragement, wisdom and unwavering support with grace and sincerity. Whether guiding young musicians, supporting colleagues through both challenges and celebrations, or simply taking the time to listen, Chris led by example. His kindness was shown equally to students and staff, and his generosity of spirit created lasting relationships built on trust and respect. He approached every interaction with patience, compassion and authenticity, leaving people feeling better for having spent time with him.
The legacy of Mr Chris Wilson cannot be measured solely by performances, awards or years of service. Rather, it is reflected in the lives he has enriched, the traditions he has established, the faith he has nurtured and the enduring culture of excellence, creativity and spirituality he has helped build at St Dominic’s College.
Today, we celebrate the remarkable Mr Wilson and acknowledge the lasting impact he has made on generations of students, staff, families and alumni at St Dominic’s.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May Chris rest in peace.
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