Charles Edward McLemore

Charles E. McLemore transitioned to his heavenly home on Sunday, February 4, 2024. He was surrounded by his devoted wife of 63 years, Mariko, and his family. At the age of 89, Charles, affectionately known as Chuck, leaves behind a legacy rich in love, generosity, and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit.

Charles entered this world on May 20, 1934, in Logan, West Virginia, beginning a remarkable journey that profoundly impacted the lives of many. After graduating from Logan High School, his deep-rooted love for God and country led him to serve as a Postal Inspector in the United States Air Force. It was during his service in Tokyo, Japan, that he met the love of his life, Mariko (Maria), initiating a lifelong companionship. Throughout his 20-year military tenure, Charles earned esteemed accolades, including the Air Force First Oak Leaf Commendation Cluster Medal.

The union of Charles and Mariko blessed them with two daughters, Elizabeth Lum and Sherry Sadarananda. Family was the cornerstone of Charles's life, and he found immense joy in nurturing a loving home in Honolulu, Hawaii, following his retirement from the Air Force in 1975. Charles also served as the Development Director for Hawaii Baptist Academy and the American Cancer Society, epitomizing his commitment to effecting positive change.

Driven by an unyielding entrepreneurial spirit, Charles founded two successful enterprises: Creative Fundraising Associates, Inc. in 1990 and Creative Grant Writing Services, LLC in 2005. Through these ventures, he became a catalyst for empowering numerous nonprofit organizations, including the FilCom Center, Hanalani Schools, Moiliili Community Center, and Le Jardin Academy, among others, to realize their missions.

A man of diverse interests, Chuck found solace and joy in listening to music. His appreciation for music became a source of inspiration for those around him, as evidenced by his extensive collection of CDs and recorded music on iPods, many of which contained over 20,000 songs.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Mariko McLemore; daughters Elizabeth Lum (Stan) and Sherry Sadarananda (Sam); grandchildren James Aaron Hutcherson (Caroline), Brittany Robinson, Charles Taylor Robinson, and Chelsea West (Grayson); great-grandchildren James Riley Hutcherson and Lydia Grace Hutcherson; sister Shirley Hodge; and nephew Chris Hodge. His extraordinary journey that leaves behind a spiritual legacy of love, compassion, and entrepreneurial spirit lives on through his family.

A Celebration of Life Service honoring Chuck will take place on Saturday, March 30th, at Borthwick Mortuary, Mauka Chapel. Visitation will commence at 9:30 am, followed by a 10:30 am service. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Hale O Meleana and the compassionate staff of St. Francis Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Francis Healthcare Foundation of Hawaii.