Charles William Hurter

Chuck was raised in Oak Park, Illinois, along with his brother Jerry. After his High School graduation, he attended the University of Illinois in Urbana. He left U of I to report to active duty in 1942. In the Army he was assigned as an engineering student to LSU and later to Princeton and Rutgers Universities to study Electrical Engineering. He saw active duty overseas 1944-45 in France, Belgium, Holland, Germany and Berlin. Chuck served in the 104th Infantry Division in WW II, in a group called the Timberwolves where he was a heavy weapons gunner. Chuck remained in the Army Reserve as Sergeant, Army QMC, 104th Infantry Division.

After his return to civilian life, he resumed his education at U of I and Cal Tech, he received BS and MS degree in Aeronautical Engineering. Post graduate studies followed at USC and UCLA in Cryogenics Engineering later to be used in rocket engine development. He remained in the reserve as a 2nd LT USAF until 1965. Throughout his career Chuck worked for numerous aircraft companies on such projects as Peacekeeper ballistic missile program, Chinook helicopter and AWACS airborne surveillance system. Chuck retired in 1987 after 39 years of work in industry and academia.

In 1949 Chuck married college co-ed Jane Wilson. They raised their 3 daughters, Patty, Cathy and Beth in Pasadena, CA. In 1980 Jane died after 31 years of marriage, at that time they were living in Bellevue, WA. He subsequently married Gretchen in 1983 who brought four more children into the family, Scott, Bryan, Gary and Janice.

Chuck felt most fortunate having his immediate family all within a 50 mile radius. He had 10 grandkids and 4 great-grandkids. “Pop“ was a proud grandpa, and enjoyed watching his grandkids grow up.

In retirement Chuck & Gretel enjoyed cruising in their sailboat to the San Juan Islands and Desolation Sound. He and Gretel developed a Power Squadron Boating Safety Program. They spent many years traveling in the area teaching this Program to elementary school kids. They also traveled extensively in their RV across the US, Canada and Mexico.

Chuck found time in retirement to volunteer as a tutor at Phantom Lake Elementary in the Grandpals program where he helped kids learn math. He was awarded the Golden Acorn Award for his many years of service.

Chuck will be missed greatly by young and old alike. With his quick wit and smile he was a welcome addition to any gathering.

In his memory donations can be made to the King County Library System.