Charles Strange Obituary

CHARLES "CHUCK" JOSEPH STRANGE
April 16, 1962 ~ August 22, 2017

Our beloved Chuck passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack at the age of 55. He was a bright light that touched many lives and will be greatly missed by his wife Paula, his family, co-workers, and friends too numerous to count.
Chuck lived his entire life in the Vancouver, WA area and graduated from Evergreen High School in 1980. He grew up with four brothers and a sister on a 20-acre farm near what is now Union High School. Money was tight and life was often a challenge, but he learned how to manage equipment and livestock. He eventually bought his own place: five acres of heaven outside La Center, WA, where he continued to "enjoy the challenge" for the rest of his life.
Every summer Chuck would dust off the haying equipment and, with brothers or friends, get to work cutting hay for folks in the area. Even though the work was hot and dusty, and the machinery always broke down, he took great satisfaction in a job well done. Chuck also enjoyed his cows, his wife's huge garden, hosting family gatherings, and most of all, just being out in the country. Through the years, he and Paula worked on the old farm house and together they made it into a wonderful home.
People were drawn to Chuck because of his good nature and the joy he had for life. He made people laugh with his quick wit and energetic personality and when someone needed help, he was always there to lend a hand. Chuck also had a soft side and found great joy in the little things. When abandoned kittens were found in their hay pile, Chuck was determined to rescue them. He and Paula hand-fed them and he was like a proud papa, sending out photos and texts in a wide broadcast to share their progress.
When not "playing farmer", Chuck worked for the City of Vancouver for 35 years, most of that was as a Utilities Inspector. He also was very active in OPEIU Local 11, starting out as a Shop Steward and eventually serving on the Executive Board for the Union. He was passionate and professional and took great pride in helping those he worked with.
Chuck was an avid collector in a number of areas: vintage toys, sci-fi collectibles, antique tools and appliances … just about anything with an interesting history or fond memories for him. He spent hours with his brother Pat restoring old space toys and dreaming of an on-line business selling them. They sold a few items over the years, but it was the memories and laughter that made them rich.
Chuck is survived by his wife of 16 years, Paula Strange; by three daughters, Amenda Piontek, Jessica Christy, and Aaron Kahn; and by eight grandchildren. He also leaves behind two brothers, Mike Perry and Dan Strange.
Chuck's memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 16th at 11a.m. at Mountain View Christian Center, 2810 NE 259th St., Ridgefield, WA 98642.

Please sign Chuck's Guest Book at
www.columbian.com/obits.