Carl Robert Cheatham

As Winter Haven’s longtime city manager, Carl Cheatham was respected for his no-drama and can-do competence, common-sense perspective, gentle demeanor and finely honed sense of diplomacy necessary to collaborate with contrasting and sometimes contentious personalities on and off the city commission.

The Polk County native died February 19, 2021 in Winter Haven after a prolonged illness. He was 86.

Born in Frostproof on February 14, 1935, Carl was raised on military bases around the world where his stepfather served in the U.S. Air Force during the Cold War. He formed especially fond memories of Germany and enjoyed recounting stories of his time there. Growing up around planes, he developed a love for aviation which led to him becoming a glider pilot, an all-around aviation buff, and a great supporter of Winter Haven’s Gilbert Field as city manager.

Carl worked his way through college, first at Polk Community College, then at the University of Alabama, from which he received his Bachelor of Science degree, and finally at the University of South Florida, he obtained a master’s degree in public administration.

He got his foot in the door of city government working at the wastewater treatment plant in Lake Wales, eventually moving up to become that city’s manager. Then heading to Anniston Alabama, he served as city manager for 12 years.

In 1987 he was recruited by headhunters hired by the city of Winter Haven and served as the city’s manager for 13 years, overseeing a critical period of growth for Polk’s second largest city until his retirement in 2000. Thereafter, he became an adjunct professor at Webber International University and Polk Community College teaching economics and political science. He wound up his professional life as interim city manager of Frostproof.

Carl’s first marriage to Barbara Lamb Cheatham produced a son, Robert (Bob) Carl Cheatham Jr. A second marriage later in life to Kathy Hart Cheatham brought another son, Casey Cheatham. He was especially proud to witness both sons graduate from college. As an avid woodworker and enthusiastic artist, Carl created a number of model ships. However, his greatest pleasure was his family.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents James and Mabel Hester, birth father Milton Cheatham, and granddaughter Brittany Cheatham.

He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sons Bob Cheatham (Jill) and Casey Cheatham, two grandchildren Blair Cheatham and Kristyn Stackpole (Ryan), and two great grandchildren Peyton Stackpole and Paisley Stackpole.

He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven, where a Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, March 7, 2021 at 3 o’clock.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Presbyterian Church of Winter Haven.