Obituary: Wetzel, Charles Lewis
Age 71
WETZEL, Charles Lewis “Chuck”
(Age 71)
Of El Mirage, AZ, died the evening of May 9, 2012, following a two-year fight with cancer.
He was born on January 6, 1941, to Lynn and Hazel Wetzel in Walla Walla, WA, where he spent his childhood.
Following high school graduation in 1959, he attended the University of Washington, where he was a member of the nationally-ranked Husky rowing team, and ultimately earned his degree in Business from Eastern Washington University.
Chuck spent many years in the Pacific Northwest, living in Spokane and Bellevue, before grabbing a slice of paradise and moving to Kaneohe, HI, with his wife, Judy.
They returned to the mainland in 1993 and lived in Arizona and then a few years back in Spokane before moving to El Mirage, AZ, in 2011.
He had careers as a banker, a realtor, a mortgage lender and an entrepreneur.
Throughout his life, people were drawn to his kindness, positive attitude and infectious humor.
He made genuine connections with many in both his personal and professional lives.
His Christian faith grew stronger over the years and he was an active member of Desert Palms Presbyterian Church.
His interests included family, Husky football, entertaining friends, and savoring wine.
Chuck is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years, Judy; brothers, Al Wetzel of Spokane and Rob Wetzel of Honolulu; sons, Scott Wetzel and Chris Wetzel, both of Spokane; eight grandchildren; and many other loving family members.