Hamilton, Ontario – On Friday, October 4, 2024, the death of Chantel Grillo, the News Directory at CHCH, left the News team and the entire community of Hamilton, Ontario, heartbroken. Chantel Grillo passed away at age 39. Chantel’s untimely death has left a deep void in the lives of her colleagues, friends, and family. As we come to terms with this devastating loss, we cannot help but reflect on the incredible person she was and the indelible mark she left on everyone around her.
Chantel was much more than a colleague; she was the heart of the newsroom. As CHCH News Director, she was a true leader who guided her team with kindness, dedication, and a sense of community that made the newsroom feel more like a family. She was not only a consummate professional but also someone who took great care in making sure her coworkers felt valued and appreciated. Whether it was organizing celebrations for birthdays, holidays, or other special occasions, Chantel was always there to make things a little brighter for everyone.
Chantel leaves behind her loving husband Al, her two beautiful children Alexis (12) and Zander (9) as well as her grieving parents Lisa and Darrell Cleland. During this difficult time her colleagues led by Pat Schwenk are coming together to support Chantel’s husband Al and the children through a gofundme campaign. Support the Grillo’s family, donate at https://www.gofundme.com/f/chantel-grillo
Chantel’s professional legacy at CHCH is remarkable. She had an unwavering dedication to her craft and led with a passion that touched everyone in the newsroom. As the News Director, Chantel was the guiding force behind countless broadcasts, from routine news coverage to massive, complex shows. She was the newsroom’s “mom,” ensuring every detail was in place and every special occasion was celebrated. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and her colleagues often marveled at how she balanced her demanding career with her deep love for her family.
