Chuck Perry

Chuck Perry was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

Chuck was born on May 15, 1949 at Hibbing General Hospital in Hibbing, Minnesota. He was the son of Laurence and Beatrice Perry, although he was raised by Dan and Bea Roberts. Chuck grew up in Orange County, California.

Chuck was raised with three siblings. He had a younger brother Darrel, younger sisters Laurice and Melodee. Chuck was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

As a young boy, Chuck had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Chuck was an active child who took part in choir. In his spare time he liked sleeping and taking naps. However, to Chuck, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

A typical teenager, Chuck had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Rancho Alamitos High School in 1967. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. His favorite class in high school was Choir.

Chuck enjoyed his college years, which may have been a challenge with all of the academics, responsibilities, and the sudden freedom that accompanied them, but Chuck was able to manage the balancing act. He attended Fullerton College for a brief time and realized that college was not for him. He did not obtain a degree.

Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Chuck enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were in the Centralia Elementary Clan and Somers Drive Gang. Later in life, he became friends with Brian Sadler.

On June 27, 1970 Chuck exchanged wedding vows with Donna Jean Allen at St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Orange County, California. They were married for twelve years before divorcing in 1982.

Chuck worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Chuck was blessed with two children, two daughters, Misty and Brandy. Another blessing for Chuck was the gift of six grandchildren, Daniel, Emma, Drew, Abigail, Ava and Cole.

Fortunately, Chuck enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Chuck worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was United States Postal Service Clerk. He was employed for approximately 26 years with the U. S. Postal Service. Chuck always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

Chuck enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were collecting coins, watching old movies, spending time with family and friends, collecting stamps and post cards. And don't forget... I Love Lucy. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

Though he never set out to gain individual recognition, Chuck was given accolades for his many and varied accomplishments throughout his life. Some of his most prestigious awards included Santa Claus of the year.

Chuck enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included traveling the continental U. S., he especially loved his visit to our nation's capital in D. C.

Chuck was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Tinker Bell, circa 1960's. They were best friends for approximately seven years.

When Chuck’s retirement finally arrived in 2000, he was well prepared. His new life involved relocating to Laguna Beach, California. Even in retirement, Chuck continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Chuck was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

Chuck passed away on June 28, 2010 at Mission Hospital in Laguna Beach, California. He is survived by his children; Misty and Brandy, his grandchildren Daniel, Emma, Drew, Abigail, Ava and Cole; his brother Darrel and his sisters Laurice and Melodee.

Simply stated, Chuck was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Chuck leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Chuck Perry.