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CHARLES GRAU Obituary


CHARLES EDWARD GRAU "Charley"  
On Sunday, August 30, 2015, of Jessup, MD. Beloved son of the late Charles Henry Grau and Caroline Grau Kunkel; brother of Peter F. (Lisa) Grau and Maggie G. (Lewis) Bean; step-brother of Marge Dean, James H. (Sherry), Bill, Louise and the late Sue Kunkel; uncle of Sarah and Libby Bean, Matthew (BJ), Daniel, Christina and Maria Grau, James Kunkel, Eric (James) Watkins, Peter (Kelly) Kunkel. Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking), Wednesday, September 2, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., and at St. Peter's Church, 2900 Sandy Spring Road, Olney, MD on Thursday, September 3, from 10 to 11 a.m., where Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. Interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Charley's memory to St. Jerome School, 5205 43rd Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781.www.COLLINSFUNERALHOME.com  

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Published by The Washington Post on Sep. 1, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for CHARLES GRAU

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Costas & Anne Patsalosavvis

September 29, 2015

Pete and Lisa,
Our condolences to you and all of the Grau Family. We are so sorry for the loss of your brother Charley. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

David Blackwell

September 22, 2015

Charlie and I began working at Rosecroft in 1974. I didn't know him before then. In 1977 (the year Affirmed won the triple crown) Charlie and I were scheduled to work the preakness. Charlie asked me if he could ride with me to Pimlico. On the way to the track he was fairly quiet and relaxed, yet he laughed at my humor. We were on the same page. Charlie filed my taxes Every year since 1986. I called him one year at tax time and asked him to mail me a form. When I offered my address he stated he already has it on file. He said, "I've got you filed under bad jokes, Chilliwack". Thereafter whenever I called him I would ask, Hey Charlie - Am I still filed under bad jokes?? He always laughed at that.
Charlie - - You were my brother and a genuine true friend. God Bless You for being a Perfect Gentleman.

Steven Devoney

September 21, 2015

Charley and I met through his tax services and over time we learned that we had another connection as well. He loved going up to the mountains (Pen Mar Park) to be with his family and later just to enjoy the people, the music played there, the spectacular vista, and to take time to relive all the memories that were made there. I too love that place and we would on occasion make plans to meet there with our family and friends and enjoy the fall. We had talked about going this season and I am saddened to know that Pen Mar Park will be forced to go on without it's biggest fan. This is a tremendous loss and my heart goes out to his family and friends. Safe home Charley.

Julie Armstrong

September 17, 2015

Chris and I were shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of Charlie. Charlie was not only a tax preparer but he also did so much in the community. He had such a kind and patient personality which made him successful in his career. We will miss him and wish his family peace and wonderful memories.

Kathy Nicholson

September 16, 2015

Charlie was such a sweet, kind, gentle soul with a surprisingly sly sense of humor! He worked so hard in charitable endeavors for kids in the community- many will miss him, including me.

Phil Nicholson

September 16, 2015

I knew Charley from the days of the Strawboss restaurant over 30 years ago - one of my few friends - had done our taxes for years. Just talked to him a month ago and was surprised I hadn't heard from him for a a couple of weeks - I JUST found out today about his passing. I trusted him with everything - he was going to be the "go to guy" if I passed away and my wife needed help with the mess. I thank God for knowing him. Goodbye my good friend.

Marissa Bell

September 14, 2015

Charly, I knew you for more than 26 years, even though we began our relationship through business, you became one of my most cherished friends. I'll miss your voice and the long conversations about nothing. You were the best of men.

DAVE FOREMAN

September 9, 2015

So sorry to hear about Charlie's death. Heck of a nice guy. Worked with him at Maryland Racetracks.

Chanel Clark

September 6, 2015

My heart and prayers go out to the family and for the days ahead. May Gods peace, comfort and strength keep you. My aunt just told is about the news Friday and i am still just in shock. I wish we would have known earlier so that would could have been there for the service but know you all will be in our prayers. My grandmother (Eleanor) met Charles back when she was working at wonder bread and he has been a part of our family every since. He was more than just our tax guy, he was family. He came to my wedding back in 08 and I spoke with him a few months ago because he was checking in, such a great and kind guy. He was always there for you no matter the need. I will cherish all of the memories we have. . Rest in paradise.

Tom & Sonya Bakalis

September 5, 2015

Our hearts cry when we heard the news. We are still in shock. We met Charlie from a friend to do our taxes and 8 years later you were not just the tax guy, you were our friend. We can see his garage wall where he marked the heights of our boys. You are going to be missed. Your love for Silver Spring and its history. We will miss our conversations with you. God needed you more my friend. Our sincere condolences to your family.

Mark Doran

September 3, 2015

Charley is a great guy, here and in the afterlife. The racetrack won't be the same without seeing his face. Prayers to his family and friends. You have a terrific man in Charley. Peace be quickly upon you.

Jim Castelli

September 3, 2015

Charley was a great friend of many years. He was a great guy and I always enjoyed talking to him about various subjects. He was very giving and would help anyone anytime. He will be missed.

Beverly Youhouse

September 3, 2015

Charlie was a great guy. He gave so much of his time and talents to the children of St. Jeromes. I always enjoyed my yearly visit with him at tax time. He will be greatly missed. Charlie, say hi to Sister Joyce, Dick Brown and so many of our dear St. Jerome friends. My sincere condolences to Charlie's family.

Joe Sego

September 2, 2015

Charley was a dear friend and an absolute LEGEND at St. Jerome's. There will never be another Charley Grau!!

Chris Bishop

September 2, 2015

Charlie and I shared some classes at Carroll HS, including a memorable English assignment. He was a great guy, and I am sure will be missed. My heart and prayers go to his family.

Sue Krall-Messmer

September 2, 2015

Charley, I'll miss you. I will cherish the memories. You were a good person.

Phyllis and Bob Taylor

September 2, 2015

Met Charley through Tom S. Loved the time spent at PenMar park and other events. Just a lovely man! No sense in his passing so young. So passionate about youth basketball camp. Many young players denied of his enthusiasm and guidance.

Jim and Kathy Smith

September 2, 2015

To the Grau Family - our most sincere sympathy. We were stunned to hear the sad news about Charley's early departure from this earth. Charley's been a great friend for the past six years since we met him at the St. Jerome's Dick Brown summer basketball camp. He was so kind and encouraging to our little camper and all of the children and his knowledge of basketball was vast. What a great role model he was for those kids. Our friendship with Charley grew over the years and we will miss him so much. Our latest conversations were about meeting up to hear a good band. Charley was a trusted friend and one of the most loyal folks you'd ever want to meet. And so thoughtful....he never hesitated to pick up the phone to share something he thought you might enjoy. We will truly miss him. Sincerely, Kathy and Jimmy Smith

Daniela, Tommy, & Savanna Kaiser

September 2, 2015

Charley you were taken way to soon; God must have bigger & better plans for you in Heaven. We will always remember you as a kind & gentle soul who always did so much for others. May you rest in Heaven, Charley.

Christine Dice

September 2, 2015

Charley was a great guy! Only tax guy I've ever had. He had a passion for working with kids and dedicated to keeping Coach Dick Brown's legacy going. He loved talking sports and was proud to display his pictures with various athletes. He will definitely be missed!

John Renzi

September 2, 2015

Maggie, I just heard about Charlie from John. Really sad news, he was so young. Kathy and I will pray for him. I remember Charlie well. A good man. You take care of yourself.

Jennette Waters

September 2, 2015

My condolences to Charles Family. It was an absolute pleasure working with Charlie he was so kind and always helpful and very knowledgeable about taxes. We will miss him Maryland Jockey Club.

Brian Nixon

September 2, 2015

Charlie was in many of my classes at Carroll - RIP, Charlie.

Brian Nixon - Class of '74

Jef Haesloop

September 2, 2015

I met Charlie at Rosecroft Raceway in the early 1980's. He was a great person and a better friend. He always wore a smile and was quick to say Hello. He will be missed -

Wendy Dudley

September 2, 2015

Maggie and family, I just heard the sad news about the sudden loss of your dear brother. Know you are in my thoughts, sending sympathy and hugs. XO

Jeff, Georgine, Chris and Janie DeBord

September 2, 2015

We were shocked and saddened by the news of Charley's passing. He was a great guy and a terrific tax professional. We loved our sessions with him, mixing sports and taxes! Glad I got to talk to him recently. Our whole family will miss his expertise, humor and kind spirit. Prayers to your family.

Kathy Perrodin

September 2, 2015

My condolences to Charlie's family. He was a such a nice man.I knew him from work ( Race Track ).I'm so sorry for your sudden loss. God Bless.

Olga Fenning

September 2, 2015

Oh Maggie, my heart goes out to you at this very sad time. Please know I am keeping you in my prayers. Olga

Marian Lawson

September 2, 2015

Charley was a wonderful friend and we had some great times dancing together and listening to local bands - he will be sadly missed by all.

Michelle Dorsey

September 2, 2015

I did not know Charlie that well but I worked with him a few days ago. He was always nice and everyone liked him. He will be missed at Laurel.

Beth Dunbar

September 2, 2015

So very sorry to hear of Charley's passing. Peace and blessings to your family.

Cathy Lapsley

September 2, 2015

Charlie was a wonderful person, sincere and kind. He was the tax man you could count on. He loved sports and always had the games on. Perhaps he will enjoy watching a woman's basketball game in heaven as he will have a great view. My condolences to Charlie's family. He will be missed.

Tammy Batt

September 1, 2015

I have known Charlie for a long time since our days at rosecroft I will surely miss him he was a true friend and did taxes for half of the racetrack I am glad I talked to him on Sat. nite I feel I got to say goodbye. May God Bless You and Your Family in this time of Grieving Peace Be With You

Margaret Stafford

September 1, 2015

Dearest Maggie, My heart breaks for you. Know that I am praying for you and your family. I am sure the Charlie is at rest in the loving arms of our Lord. Please accept my most heartfelt sympathy.

Cink & Steve DeVeas

September 1, 2015

Mags and entire Family -
Many fond memories of getting to know Charley the years he helped us with our taxes. Great guy who will be sorely missed. Thinking of you and sending lots of love & prayers.

Martha Wade

September 1, 2015

Dear Maggie and family,
So sorry for your loss. Charlie is gone too soon. Praying for strength and peace for you and your family.

September 1, 2015

Maggie and Peter

our heart and prayers to you and your families on this sudden and tragic event

Joe and Pat

Juanita Bean

September 1, 2015

Maggie and Family, Our deepest sympathy on the loss of Charley. We always enjoyed seeing and talking with him at your holiday get-together.
Aunt Juanita, David, Brian & Jennifer

Mary Chamberlin

September 1, 2015

Maggie, I am so shocked and saddened to hear of the loss of your brother, Charley. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family during this difficult time.

September 1, 2015

I am so sorry. Charlie was always a sweet, friendly gentleman. Much love and prayers for him and all of his family,
Claire FitzGerald Wilk (SCS 70')

Nancy Knott

September 1, 2015

Maggie and family our prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Love Nancy and Paul

Mellen Fallica

September 1, 2015

So sorry my dearest friend Mags and family! Praying for all of you. Sending love. Mellen

Charles&Murel Redngton&Family

September 1, 2015

A shocking loss of a longtime friend who visited us many a September. Our condolences to his family.

Florence Sipes

September 1, 2015

Maggie, Lewis, Sars and Libby,
My sincere sympathy for your loss.
Flo Sipes

September 1, 2015

With our most heartfelt condolences.
James H. Kunkel and Sherry L. Kunkel and Family

September 1, 2015

It was with sadness that I learned about Charlie's death. He was a gentle, kind, and faithful friend to all of us at St. Jerome's. I will miss him very much and the flowers he used to bring from his garden. My prayers are for his family.
In love and peace,
Sr. Geri McPhee SND de Namur

Jo Kelley

September 1, 2015

I was shocked and saddened with the news of Charley's passing. He was such a good man and friend. Charley loved to talk about old times; I will miss those talks. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. My heart goes out to his family at this sad time and in the days ahead.

Ed & Rebecca Martin

September 1, 2015

With deepest sympathy

Showing 1 - 49 of 49 results

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