Mr. Charles Perry Fenley

He was born in Stockton, California, the son of Charles & Mary Fenley. His ambition and work ethic started at the early age of twelve, selling newspapers in downtown Stockton and singing in local establishments. That drive stayed with him his entire life. He dropped out of high school and joined the Navy at eighteen years of age and participated in the D-day invasion on Utah beach during WWII.

After the war he returned to Stockton where he met and married Annabelle Lillie Fassett to whom he had been married 70 years prior to her death in 2016. He began his career as an electrician with Collin’s Electric. In 1963 he started the 5 Minute Car Wash. The 5 Minute Car Wash continues operation by his son Michael and wife Lisa, grandson Brandon Fenley and great grandson Duncan Fenley.

He was known as Charlie to friends and customers. He always put his customers first and loved talking with people. He never met a stranger. Charlie was quick to share his views on politics and finance and many people were the beneficiaries of his reciting of “The Educated Guess.” He was one of a kind and lived life his way until the very end.

Charles is survived by his daughter Charla Baird, son Michael Fenley and wife Lisa, grandson Brandon Fenley and wife Danielle, great grandson Duncan Fenley and his wife Amie, daughter Nannette McKay and husband Jim, grandson Garrett McKay and wife Lauren, great grandsons Owen, Caleb & Parker McKay, and grandson Connor McKay.

At the age of 95, Charles married Marie McClennen, who provided him with love and companionship in his final years. The burial will be private.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family is grateful for the loving care provided by the staff at both Hospice and Bethel Retirement Community. Remembrances can be sent to Community Hospice at 4368 Spyres Way, Modesto 95356 or The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum at 610 N 9th St, Modesto 95350.