Charlie was co-founder of a group of ballroom dancers who called themselves the Boxtrotters. On a regular basis, we held dances at the home of Jeeti and Frank Austin in Huntsville, AL and, on occasion, group members would meet for dinner. Charlie kept the membership list, acted as "secretary", and informed us regarding group activities. He always kept us in good "spirits", making certain there was plenty of "libation" at each dance. My favorite memory of Charlie is when he and Sue danced a choreographed routine to "Mustang Sally", which ended with Sue riding Charlie's back off the floor! Having eaten more than a few pancakes at Charlie's invitation, I remember too that he was heavily involved in the Kiwanis Club of Huntsville's annual pancake breakfast fundraiser. Charlie was a "hugger", always greeted me with a hearty handshake and a big smile, and always had a good story to tell. His enthusiasm for life and cheerful demeanor were infectious. The Boxtrotters no longer meet, but I'm certain I speak for all his dance friends in saying that he will be missed, and well-remembered.  

I have been Charles and Sue’s neighbor across the street for a little over 3 years. One day I went next door to talk to or give them something I don’t remember but when I got there a little bird kept flying in and out of the house! It was very funny because the bird would make a home in the door decoration. I know it probably annoyed them but that memory will always stick in my head. Charles was a good man and he was always so nice to me and did his best to look out for my yard across the street. He will truly be missed. 

My condolences to Charles family and friends.  I was so sadden to read of his passing. I too am originally from St. Louis, born and raised there. Married a military man,  long story short, that's how I ended up in Alabama.   We are active members of VFW in Decatur, had a booth set up a couple of years ago, at Depot Days, and Charles came by our booth.  I'm the coordinator for Wreaths across America at Roselawn Cemetery, Charles wanted to purchase a wreath for his parents gravesite, he's done that every year since, and he's was always one of the first sponsors.  This year we will lay a wreath in your honor.  Thank you for your service sir. May God bless your family during this very difficult time.  


Uncle Charlie was my godfather and I have many happy memories of him.  I remember how much he enjoyed the Three Stooges; him playing the accordian at family gatherings; and the cool cars he would drive - my favorite being the white '67 Thunderbird with the red interior.   He simply enjoyed life!  My condolences to Sue and the family.

Charlie's parents were my Godparents when I was born in 1950. I called them Aunt Agnes and Uncle Joe so that made Charlie (and Bob, Tom and Mary Ann) and I  "kissin' cousins".  My Mom was in the wedding party of Agnes and Joe.  I remember going to the family home on Rosalie in St. Louis when my Mom and her friends went to play Blitz with Agnes.  And I have a photo of the Urbans celebrating a meal at our home in Lemay. I remember how good looking Charlie was  in his CBC cadet uniform--his parents were so proud of him!  Rest in Peace, Charlie, and keep up with the Countdown to Christmas from your spot in heaven!  The photo is from June, 1953, taken on the back porch steps of the home on Rosalie. Charlie was almost 6 and I was 2 1/2.


I met Charlie when we both worked at the Acquisition Center at AMCOM.  I'm from St Louis too but I moved to Huntsville about 5 years earlier from ATCOM (AVSCOM). After he retired, we kept in touch through Facebook and phone calls. He always had me laughing. My favorite story of his was when he answered a telemarketer phone call in Polish. He frustrated the poor guy, who spoke in broken English.  The telemarketer finally asked if there was anybody there who could speak English.  We also talked about our upbringing as Catholics in St Louis, including the schools. We also talked about our love of our country and love of our families.  My deepest sympathy to his beloved Sue, his sons, grandchildren, family, and his many friends. I'll miss our chats...always.

Left side front John McGuire, Bill Zuber, John Smalley, right side front Denny Urhan, Tony Giannelli, and Lowell Morgan. 

Our group met today for our monthly luncheon and saved a place for Charlie at the table.  We all shared our great memories of Charlie. Attending was Lowell Morgan. John McGuire, Denny Urhan, Tony Giannelli, John Smalley, and myself Bill Zuber.

I worked with Charlie in the MoANG and then we transfered to the Army in Aviation and Troop Comand in St Louis and also moved down to Huntsville with him to work at the Army Aviation and Missible Comand.  Once we retired we started having a monthly luncheon with our fellow retired MoANG guys that had also moved down to Huntsville and we were always sharing stories (which Charlie had plenty) and we would all come up with solutions to solve the world problems.  Charlie was such a funny guy and was always fun to be around. Charlie will be truly missed .

My mother always had such a smile on her face when she talked about Charlie. One of my favorite photos I found of her after she passed was a picture of her with him and the smile that was on her face. My heart is with you and your family during this time but also with her as I know she is welcoming him with that same smile on her face. 

OBITUARY

Charles William Urban

10 July, 1947 – 16 November, 2021

Roselawn Funeral Home & Roselawn Cemetery

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services