Charles Oliver Weatherwax Jr. was born on August 28, 1942, in Walker, Iowa, to Charles and Esther (Jackie) Weatherwax Sr. Because his father was a coach, the family moved often during his early years before settling in Blakesburg, Iowa, where Charlie spent his childhood and attended school through his sophomore year of high school.
From a young age, Charlie had a love for sports and a strong work ethic. He played baseball as a pitcher, first baseman, and right fielder, and could often be found working part-time at the local gas station. In May 1958, the family moved to Pocahontas, Iowa. There, he played football until an injury sidelined him—an unexpected turn that led him to meet Patricia Peters, the love of his life.
After graduating, Charlie attended Emmetsburg Junior College for a year before returning to Pocahontas, where he continued working at a gas station. He later moved to East Moline, Illinois, to work at the International Harvester plant. When layoffs brought him back home, he found work at James Supermarket, continuing to build a life rooted in hard work and community.
On August 18, 1962, Charlie and Pat were united in marriage at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and laughter. Together, they raised six children: Denise (Sherrilee), Tami Friend (Mark), John (Kris), James, Mark (Donna), and David (Barb). Their family grew to include many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of immense pride and joy to Charlie.
Charlie and Pat made their home in Pocahontas, first living in town before moving to a farmhouse north of town, and later to Pat’s homestead farm on C49 in 1968. They built not just a home, but a life centered around family, friendship, and community. As active members of the Pocahontas Saddle Club, they spent many hours together running the concession stand and sharing in the simple joys of life.
Charlie had a gift for bringing smiles to others. Whether serving as a clown or acting as master of ceremonies at parades, carnivals, and community events, he had a natural ability to connect with people and spread joy. His involvement with the Jaycees from 1962 to 1978 reflected his deep commitment to service, where he held numerous leadership roles, including local president, State Vice President, and National Director. He was also a proud member of the Storm Lake Moose Lodge.
For nearly three decades, Charlie worked at Iowa Industrial Hydraulics, remaining there from 1975 until the plant closed in 2003. Through it all, his greatest devotion was always to his family and many summers were spent at the campgrounds in Storm Lake and Twin Lakes.
Charlie experienced profound loss with the passing of Pat on April 27, 2010, but he carried her memory with him always. In 2013, while bringing joy to others as Santa at Coral Ridge Mall, he met Karen Taylor Burton. Their relationship brought renewed companionship and happiness, and in July 2014, they celebrated their union surrounded by family and friends at the United Methodist Camp chapel.
In his later years, Charlie became a familiar and cherished presence in Monarch Cove, often seen riding his golf cart and sharing a wave, a story, or a laugh. He continued his role as Santa, delighting children and families alike, a reflection of his generous spirit and love for bringing happiness to others.
Charlie found joy in the outdoors—camping, fishing, and especially spending time with those he loved. He had a rare gift: he truly never met a stranger. His kindness, humor, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
He will be remembered as a loving husband, a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and a friend to all. His presence brought warmth and light to so many lives, and he will be deeply missed. Charlie was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Terry; his first wife, Pat; and his son, Mark.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 4:15 PM with a memorial service taking place at 4:30 PM at the Methodist Church in Spirit Lake. The service will be livestreamed on the church’s YouTube page at http://www.youtube.com/@SLUMC Memorial contributions will be designated at a later time. Arrangements are under the direction of the Robinson Funeral Home in Spirit Lake. Online condolences may be left at www.spiritlakefuneralhome.com