Charles was a lifelong resident of Evansville, living on the Wallis family farmstead in northern Vanderburgh County. In his youth, he was an Eagle Scout and was very active in the 4-H program, as most farm kids were at the time. His 10 years in 4-H as a youth would go on to influence a lifetime of service to the program and youth of Vanderburgh County.
He was a Proud Purdue Boilermaker, graduating with a degree in Agricultural Economics. He began his career with PCA (now Farm Credit) working in Ag Lending. He then transitioned to a career as a real estate broker before forming his own real estate appraisal firm, which he ran for over 35 years until his retirement in 2022. As an appraiser, he was active for many years at the national level for the National Association of Independent Fee Appraisers, taking a leadership role in shaping the profession and teaching real estate classes.
Charles was a 4-H leader for 45 years and served as superintendent of the livestock program for many years. He was active in both the Vanderburgh County Fair Association and served on the Board of the Vanderburgh County 4-H Center. He was one that could be counted on to volunteer at the many events at the Center throughout the year, in addition to innumerable hours at the county fair every year. He took great pride and joy in sharing the 4-H experience with his children, who all completed their 10 years in 4-H, and his great-grandchildren are currently active in 4-H.
He was a member of Newburgh Lodge, Scottish Rite, and the Hadi Shrine for over 40 years. Involvement in Shrine activities was his other great passion, especially the Hadi White Horse Patrol, of which he was a founding member. The Horse Patrol is seen throughout the tri-state in local parades and especially every year at the Shrine Circus. He raised and cared for several beloved horses over the years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John H. and Eleanor R. (Walter) Wallis.
Charles is survived by his wife Mary Wright-Wallis; sons Rick (Karen) Wallis of Evansville and Mark Wallis of Indianapolis; step-daughter Amanda (Brian) Cooper of St. Louis; sister Lucille Burkhammer of Anoka, MN; grandchildren Emily Elsner, Danielle Elsner, and Shaun Elsner; great-grandchildren Peyton Deweese, Joey Deweese, Blake Elsner, Leo Whitledge; and many nieces and nephews.
Charles’ family would like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to the Scott Fire Department Community Paramedic Program for the care Charles received, allowing him to remain in his cherished home until his passing.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Blue Grass Church – Chapel Campus, 14240 Petersburg Road, officiated by Rev. Doug Heiman, followed by burial in Blue Grass Cemetery.
Family and friends may visit on Wednesday from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Alexander North Chapel, 4200 Stringtown Road, and Thursday, from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Vanderburgh County Fair Association or the Scott Fire Department Community Paramedic Program.
Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderNorthChapel.com.
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