Charles Joseph Hoeger

And Charlie smiled, then laughed. On January 22, 2014, Charles J. Hoeger passed from this earth to heaven on the wings of our Lord. He left us as he wished, surrounded by the love of his family. Charlie was born March 21, 1930 and grew up in Englewood, New Jersey. He went to St. Cecelia High and had Vince Lombardi as a Chemistry teacher. Yes, that Vince Lombardi! As a young man, he worked in the family business, the Hoeger Press, and served in the New Jersey National Guard for 10 years rising to the rank of Sergeant Major. He met and fell in love with Mary Wilbur, and she was at his bedside at his passing. They married in 1957 and had 3 children. Charlie and Mary spent half their lives in New York, both eventually working for IBM. Then in 1979, Charlie realized a boyhood dream and moved to Tucson. Charlie had a romantic view of the Old West, and he and Mary enjoyed years of exploration in the Southwest. They bought a Jeep and joined the Tucson Rough Riders creating a life-time of memories. During his lifetime, Charlie was an avid Military Aircraft modeler and aviation enthusiast. He loved American history and was very knowledgeable on many topics from the American Revolution to World War II. Upon retirement, he donated several collections of his period correct military aircraft to the Pima Air Museum in Tucson and Falcon Field in Mesa. In 2003, he and Mary moved to Mesa, to be closer to family. Always a quick wit, he could tell a good story until the end charming family, friends and caregivers alike. He loved music; he loved his kitty cats; he loved his family; and he loved to laugh and have a good time. He was greatly loved and will be missed dearly. Charlie is survived by his wife of 56 years and the love of his life, Mary; 3 Children: Cynthia, Lorena and Glenn; their Spouses; and 6 Granddaughters: Karen, Amanda, Sarah, Helen, Alexandra and Samantha whom he adored. A lovely Memorial was already held at Fellowship Square where the couple resided. Thanks to all for the outpouring of kindness and prayers for the family.