Charles Watson

Charles R. Watson signed out of this earthly life, loved and cherished on February 21, 2024. Just as he was brought into this world on Mother’s Day, May 14, 1950by his parents, Charles L. and Aldean (Risner) Watson. Chuck was the older brother to Delbert (Rita) Watsonand sister Joanne (Tom) Franzen. He grew up with many aunts, uncles and cousins, who became accessories to crime in whatever antics he chose to execute that day while working with all of them on his grandparents’ farm in Rensselaer, IN.

He lived his life always in a hurry, we called it “being rammy,” but he was always ready for whatever adventure or obstacle awaits.  His zest for life was infectious and those who were lucky enough to be called friends, were a friend for life. Chuck graduated from Liberty High School in 1968. He then enlisted in the Army and served in the 287th Ordnance Detachment (EOD) at Phu Bai, Vietnam from 1969-1970 as rank SP5. This previous class clown was highly decorated during his time in the Army and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device and Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Basic Explosive Ordnance Disposal Badge.  On July 18, 1970, SP5 Charles Watson, was at the Battle of Fire Support Base Ripcord and was combat wounded, receiving the Purple Heart.  Although Chuck’s time in the military was brief, it made an indelible impression on the rest of his life. Not only for what he endured, but the lifelong friendships that he treasured with those who also lived through the unimaginable, especially Duffy, Tom, Joe, Rick, and Stu.  

Chuck returned home, married and started a family and new job. He started a new position as a delivery driver at Valpo Beverage in 1977. As this company grew, so did his love and commitment to the people and the organization.  The Leetz family welcomed him into their family and throughout his 30+ years working, at what is now Indiana Beverage, Chuck’s roles and responsibilities changed as well. The constant was his commitment to those he managed and worked alongside.  The lifelong relationships of those he worked with were lasting and true. You never not knew where you stood with Chuck, he was a straight shooter and honest, spoke his mind and never held a grudge. He strove for excellence and expected that from others as well, but always provided a shoulder to lean on and words of advice (solicitated and unsolicited). 

Like the family he built at work, he also started one at home. He raised two children, Kim (Jason) Alsman and Michael (Jamie) Watson. Chuck was very lucky later in life to meet his true love, Teresa Troyer, and marry her at their Phoenix, AZ home. Marriage brought several more blessings into Chuck’s life. He gained step-son Josh Dommer, who he thought of as a son and is also a fellow Mason, who could share the secret handshake. Son-in-law Jason’s addition to the family soon alleviated any technology or device issues that Chuck encountered or created. But wait, there is more blessings to come- the arrival of Chuck’s grandchildren- Devon, Brayden and Madison. Chuck always said, “If I knew grandkids were this great, I would have had them first!” Chuck and Terri could not be better grandparents:  the boys can’t count all the popsicles consumed in the backyard, getting sprayed by the hose, the trips to AZ, scaring PawPaw with a rubber snake, Cubs spring training and Field of Dreams game, White Sands National park, getting chased by wild donkeys in Oatman, go-cart racing, Disney Cruises, smoking salmon and enjoying grilling ribs with PawPaw’s special BBQ sauce…Too many good times to count…

Chuck’s second true love, after Terri is their beloved (aka spoiled) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Fergie. Like clockwork you could catch Chuck and Fergie enjoying a couple of chocolate chip cookies and milk before bed. Chuck was lucky enough to enjoy retirement, spending 7 months out of the year in Phoenix, AZ, then returning to his Valpo house in the summer to try and plant the better garden than Kim. He loved the The Cubs, warm weather, 10 mile walks, reading Tom Clancy, Patricia Cornwell, or David Baldacci books with a beer by the pool, and Thursday night date nights at the American Legion to play Bingo with Terri to enjoy good times with all the AZ friends. Chuck enjoyed a life well lived and will be truly missed by all those who were lucky enough to know him.  Friends and Family are welcome for visitation at Bartholomew Funeral Home 102 E. Monroe St. Valparaiso on Thursday, Feb. 29 from 3pm-7pm, Masonic Service @ 7pm. Funeral service will be held on Friday March 1 at 11am, with visitation 1 hour before. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Legion Post 94 where Charles was a 50 year member,would be appreciated.

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