Passed Away On: August 30, 2022
Gansen, Charles Leo “Chuck” died on August 30, 2022 from Alzheimer’s complications.
He was born on March 19, 1945 in Berkeley, California to Leo and Gladys Gansen. He was raised in El Cerrito, California, and graduated from El Cerrito High School in 1963.
Following graduation, he enlisted in the Naval Air Reserve. He met his future wife, Judy Immekeppel, in 1966, while attending Junior College. He then went on to Humboldt State College where he earned his degree in Industrial Arts with a secondary teaching credential.
He and Judy married in 1968 and, after Chuck finished college, they moved to Hollister, California. Chuck taught Metal Shop at the high school there for 33 years. He also coached football and baseball for many of those years. He was also Athletic Director for several years. He and Judy had two sons, Dennis and Byron. When they were growing up, Chuck was active in Cub and Boy Scouts and Little League. He was also an avid backpacker into his 70’s.
He also enjoyed riding his Harley and dirt bike riding with his sons. They were members of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Tres Pinos, California for 35 years. After retirement, they moved to Eugene where Chuck was “in 7th Heaven” with his 2400 sq. ft. shop on five acres.
After he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, they sold their home and moved to their cabin on the McKenzie River then to The Springs at Greer Gardens retirement community in Eugene. Chuck and Judy have been members of St. Peter and St. Benedict Catholic churches.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Judy, sons Dennis (Jacki) in Texas and Byron (Judy) in California. Also, grandchildren Christopher in Florida and Megan in Kentucky. Sisters Barbara (Terry Kyte), in Arizona, Beverly Wanlin, Cathy (Phil Magro), and Karen in California, and Debbie (Mike Dotson) in Eugene. Brothers David (Peggy) in California and Michael in Eugene. Also, many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Dolores Duffy. A memorial Mass will be celebrated on October 1, at noon at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Tres Pinos. The family will hold a reception following the service at 1981 Meridian St., in Hollister.
Please join us for food and refreshments. Wear “happy” clothes. Inurnment at St. Benedict’s Columbarium to follow at a later date.
Thanks to the very caring staff at The Springs memory care and also Sacred Heart Hospice. Arrangements for cremation were handled by Neptune Society.