Charles lost his battle with Cancer on March 27/10. He is survived by his wife Lil; 3 Children, Maureen, Valerie and Greg (Carla); Four Stepchildren, Carol, Brian, Rick and Lori; Two Grandchildren, Kurt and Mitchell; Seven Step-grandchildren, Joseph, Nicole, Shannon, Teresa, Craig, Jillene and Lana; Three Sister’s, Elsie Agnes, (Bill) and Minnie (Bill); Two Brother’s, Gordon (Terry) and Ralph (Lillian); and Many Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.
Charles was born in Melville Saskatchewan where he attended Millar School and Melville High.
In 1948 at the age of 15, Charles started his 41 year career with the Canadian National Railway. As a young boy, Charles’ first job involved being responsible for the contacting the crews that ran the trains. Then in 1950, Charles moved to Watrous and assumed the position of a train clerk before being transferred to Saskatoon in 1953 to work in the yard office. In 1955, Charles pursued a position with the CNR Police, a position which he held for 34 years. In 1989, as a Lieutenant with the CNR Police, Charles retired and ended his 41 year career.
In 1956, Charles married May Beattie and together they had three children, Maureen, Valerie and Greg. Unfortunately, May lost her battle to cancer in February of 1985. Charles then married Lil (Cook) on April 3, 1987. Together, they retired to their cabin in Birch Bay, Washington, before moving to Langley, B.C for two years and then settled in Parksville in June of 1992. It is here that Charles lived his dream and spent his remaining years living right on a golf course.
Sports have always played a huge part in Charles’ life as he grew up playing hockey, baseball and later in life, golf. For the last 18 years Charles spent doing what he loved most ~golfing. When not on the course, Charles could be heard playing either the Chord organ or strum stick. Winter months were spent travelling either to Arizona or going on tropical cruises. Charles always enjoyed the game of cards with family or friends or sitting and solving a Suduko puzzle on a rainy day.
Charles died peacefully with his wife by his side. He will always be loved and remembered for his exceptional sense of humour and his love for his family.
“We will always remember him”
As per his request, a celebration of Charles’ life will be held at Morningstar Golf Course on Friday, April 30, 2010 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.
YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM
(250-248-5859) in care of arrangements.