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CHARLES AMBLER Obituary
CHARLES H. "CHAS", on Dec. 16, 2013, age 65. Beloved husband for 40 years to Maria B. (nee Bense), loving father of Greg C. (Jessie) and Matt H. (his fiancée Kristi) Ambler, cherished grandfather of Evan Ambler and his "grandpuppy" Dunkin. As per Chas' request Funeral Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Chas' memory preferred to Philadelphia Zoo¸3400 W. Girard Ave., Phila., PA. 19104. Family service by DEAN/GEITNER/GIVNISH OF FOX CHASE, 1-800-GIVNISH
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Memories and Condolences
for CHARLES AMBLER
Nancy (Reinhart) Epstein
December 14, 2023
Still miss the great times we shared on the softball field, watching movies or shopping at the general stores. He is missed lots.
October 16, 2014
Maria,
Thank you for your message...so nice to hear from you. I feel so fortunate to have had you and Chas in my life. I hope our paths will cross soon. Would be great to see you again!
Best,
Nancy (Reinhart) Epstein
October 14, 2014
Mr. Ambler, you will never be forgotten...always in my thoughts.
Nancy (Reinhart) Epstein
Cristiana Stanca-Junod (CHS '95)
October 13, 2014
Just learned of Mr. Ambler's passing and it doesn't seem possible... He is an immortal in the memories of countless adults who were once teenagers sitting in his classroom, mesmerized by his "wicked" sense of humor, his passion for literature, film and knowledge of all things. He was a walking encyclopedia of information both academic and non. I came to appreciate Poe's writings because of Mr. Ambler. I read most of them as a high school sophomore and memorized so much of The Raven. I have also never opened a jar of peanut butter without wondering if there were rat hairs in it, as Mr. Ambler had shared some scary statistics on the subject in class one day.
I cannot believe you have left this world, Mr. Ambler, but have a feeling you're having a blast with Edgar Allan Poe and Vincent Price, probably watching a good "Clinty" western and sharing some dirty jokes.
You, sir, were one fine human being!
Prayers to the Ambler family!
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January 9, 2014
A wonderful teacher. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Bill Johnston
Gina Hester (Smith)
December 30, 2013
My fondest memories of high school were of Mr. Ambler. His classes were the best. We would often return to his class during lunch or after school to watch Super Dave Osborne or would go over his house to watch movies. He was the greatest teacher and person and he will be missed.
Steven Moss
December 29, 2013
Mr Ambler was a great teacher and helped me care about school when I was at a age when I couldn't care less about school. All of us who had him as a teacher were very lucky.
Pat Saavedra
December 26, 2013
I still remember the great movie posters on his classroom wall, and reading the first ever detective story by Poe. I went to visit him a year after graduating and he took the time to let me show him the clunker '70 Camaro I had at the time. Condolences to the Ambler family who need to know that his former students loved him.
Tom Betts
December 22, 2013
Chas was a contributor and supporter of Westerns... All'Italiana! for many years. He loved Spaghetti westerns and I received many a letter and contribution from him over the years. He will be missed. Condolences to his family, many of us share your loss.
Tony Conston
December 21, 2013
Maria, Greg and Matt -- Words cannot begin to express the heartfelt sorrow I feel at the loss of Chas. Please accept my condolences at this difficult time for you and your loved ones. I always looked upon Chas as being indestructible. He had such a great love for so many things: Walt Disney World, Taco Bell, The Ritz Cinema in Society Hill, guns, Spaghetti Westerns, movie posters, soundtracks, 16mm films, Mustang GTs, Corvettes, good books, really bad books, and, most importantly, his family. I have such fond memories of movie night and of chocolate chip cookies. These thoughts and images will remain with me for the rest of my life. Chas was an unconventional teacher. He attempted to make each and every topic taught both fun and intriguing. The state measures the effectiveness of a teacher by the growth shown in student achievement and in student comprehension. I, however, measure the mark of Chas' effectiveness not only as a teacher, but as a person and as a friend, in terms of his compassion and in the interest he took with ALL of his students. Never have I been around a teacher who was (and will forever be) so very much loved by his former students. God bless you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carin Cunningham
December 20, 2013
I was so sorry to hear of Mr Ambler's passing. I babysat for Gregory a few times and was introduced to Clint Eastwood through his movies. Such a nice man and a great teacher and a good friend. I know he will be missed. Wondering if Gregory ever drove the Mustang. He sure loved you all so much. Warmest wishes and remembering him fondly. I am sure he influenced the next generation of teachers along the way. Carin (Mahoney) Cunningham Class of 84'
James Schubert.
December 20, 2013
Mr Ambler made learning fun and knew how to relate with his students. He was my favorite teacher so sorry to here of his passing. To young
aly camm
December 20, 2013
matt and family,
i am so sorry to hear of your dads passing. he was always so nice to me when i was over. you and your family are in my thoughts!
Mary Schroeder (Lorah)
December 20, 2013
Maria and family.
I want to express my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Charles Ambler touched the lives of many young people throughout the years. I was one of them. He was always kind and encouraging to this extremely shy and awkward kid. I will always be grateful for this kindness. Thank you Mr. Ambler!!
December 20, 2013
Chas was more than a teacher he was a friend, it is so sad to hear of his passing. My sincerest condolences to Maria, the boys & his entire family. He will truly be missed!
Jay Perlman
class of 84
Christine Gignac Class of '80
December 20, 2013
My sincere condolences to the family. Mr. Ambler was my English teacher senior year and he was one of the best teachers I ever had.
jean nickel
December 19, 2013
Our family is saddened by the loss of a friend, neighbor and mentor to many. We will never forget movie nights and Maria's homemade cookies. Ross and Jean
December 19, 2013
RIP Chas.... Maria & Family our thoughts and prayers are here for you all. Sincerely, The Fries Family
Beverly Burke
December 19, 2013
Maria, Greg & Matt- I am so sorry for your loss. I will miss the conversations I had with Chas over the last 15 years ranging from books to fast cars to guns to politics. He was so knowledgable about so much and loved to share information and his books, he will be missed but remembered always.
Linda Morrow (Marzin)
December 19, 2013
I only had Mr. Ambler for one class while I was at Cheltenham. He was one of those teachers that every student knew was special and to have him for just one class was a privilege. The Class of 1986 has been sharing stories on Facebook the past few days. There is no doubt of the impact he made on all of us.
December 19, 2013
Maria,
I was so very sad to learn of your husband's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sandi Packel
Wendi Graff Polinow
December 19, 2013
RIP Chas Ambler
Wendi Graff Polinow
December 19, 2013
I think "Chas" would be truly thrilled by all the postings of his former students, for that is the sign of an exceptional teacher. I adored him and his classes, he had a way of making each one of his students (including me) feel special. A great teacher is one who is remembered and genuinely has an impact on his students- Mr Amber fills that description to a "t". Sincere condolences to the family- RIP Mr. Ambler
Wendi Graff Polinow
December 19, 2013
I think "Chas" would be truly thrilled with all the thoughts and memories his former students are posting- an absolutely exceptional teacher is one who is remembered after all these years and leaves a definite impression. Personally, he was one of my favorites- I adored him and his classes and always looked forward to them. He will certainly be missed, but always will be remembered as a wonderful educator. RIP Mr. Ambler
Helen Fox
December 19, 2013
Maria, my heart broke for you when I heard of Chas' passing. I hope that reading all of the heartfelt tributes from former students gives you some peace. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May you find peace and warmth in memories and the support of friends.
December 19, 2013
Fillmore street is very sad to lose one of our own...he will be sadly missed!!!
Donna Mayo (Craig)
December 19, 2013
The memories will always be with me . Movies, making films and funny commercials , chocolate chip cookies from Maria, going to the cabin with Mr. Cassidy , Phillies games . My sisters and I talk about the past and remember him as if it was yesterday, he made such an impression on all of us! Rest in peace, we know you will still be an influence in your family's lives as you keep watch over them .
Rick Topper
December 19, 2013
I had the privilege of teaching with Chas during his final years at CHS. He was an inspiring figure in the classroom and a generous and good-natured colleague. He relished his time with his students and they responded in kind. He was also a man of mystery--Chas had a way of testing his students that he called "Hundred Bangers." He explained it to me about a hundred times, but I could never quite figure it out(which was just fine with him, I think). Two culinary memories: running to the Flourtown Taco Bell ("the Bell," in Chas' words), for frantic 4th period lunches (if "the Bell" didn't open on the stroke of 11 AM we were out of luck); and lunches at Rockies, where Chas always ordered the same thing (pepper and egg white sandwich). His taste in eateries notwithstanding, Chas was one of the good guys, and the world is a poorer place without him. Rose and I send our deepest sympathy to Maria and their children, and will hold him in our thoughts. Here's to you, Chas.
Bill Roach
December 19, 2013
Chas was my best friend for over Forty years. I am devastated by his loss. He and his dear wife Maria,were always there for me. You were always my only True friend. Words cannot express how much I will miss you my friend.
Arnette Pendleton-Smith
December 19, 2013
Mr. Ambler was one of my favorite teachers at EP. It never felt like you were in class learning, it felt like you were at the movies everyday. He was a great teacher and person. He will be missed.
Robert Bonnem
December 19, 2013
Somewhere Clint Eastwood and Lee VanClef are shedding a tear.
Kym Fricke
December 19, 2013
I was so shocked and sad to learn about Mr. Ambler's death. He was not only a teacher of mine, but also a good friend of both mine and my family's...coming to dinner at our home, and sometimes to church with us. I will remember his film classes and how easy and relevant he made the things he taught us, but more importantly, I will remember our special talks and the good heart he had. I wish I had been able to re-connect with him. After all these years of absence in my life, he will still be missed.
susan jacobowitz-krisch
December 19, 2013
mr ambler was by far my favorite teacher i ever had and had such a tremendous influence on me as a person and as a student of english. i was at your wedding and i remember how excited i was to be invited. my condolences to you and your family.
Joshua Meyer
December 19, 2013
Thanks for all the movie passes (and Spaghetti Western knowledge)and for teaching me that childhood passions don't end when you grow up.
Sarah Michelle (Duman) '86
December 19, 2013
I've been thinking about Mr Ambler this week, and it occurred to me that he actually liked and loved his students. Not just the big achievers, but the quirky oddballs it particular. He chose to spend his time with us. He also demonstrated a love of teaching, spaghetti westerns, hot cars, and practical jokes. He was a great guy.
Ellen Redman
December 19, 2013
To the Ambler family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know Mr. Ambler will live on through the many lives he touched and influenced. I consider myself fortunate indeed to have been in his classes at EP.
Pat and Mark Hildebrand
December 19, 2013
We were saddened by the news of Chas's passing. He was an incredible guy who loved his family, movies and teaching. He will be missed. My prayers and thoughts will be with you. Peace.
Nathaniel Koffler
December 19, 2013
I am so saddened to hear of his loss. He was a very special English teacher to me. He was warm, funny, animated, and got me very interested in the classics. My sincere condolences. CHS '83
Eric Wright CHS 1992
December 19, 2013
I'm saddened by this news. Mr. Ambler was one of the brightest spots of my High School experience. His passion for life spilled into everything he taught us everyday! His unconventional approach to education has left a lasting impression on countless students (and colleagues alike). He will be missed. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
Suzanne Liggett
December 18, 2013
Love and prayers to the Ambler family during this sad, yet joyful remembrance of such a sweet and energized spirit. Mr. Ambler was one of those people who taught others by example to love and live life to its fullest without hesitation and with unabashed delight! Special thoughts go out to Greg and Jessie from a fellow proud PSU grad. Thanks to your dad for aiding my acceptance to all of our alma mater. He will be missed and certainly not forgotten.
Randi Stout
December 18, 2013
He was one of my favorite teachers ! He is a legend. He will be missed. Condolences to the family.
Linda Kline
December 18, 2013
The world has lost an exception teacher, role model, coach, family man, and all around wonderful person. His influence on so many is obvious by the outpouring of love and stories being shared both here and all over Facebook. We, his EP students, remember his love of movies, Clint Eastwood, the Phillies, and, of course, us! Maria, we all knew how much he loved you and your kids. Please know that you and your family are in the thoughts and prayers of a multitude of grateful EP and CHS grads. With love, Foxy (Linda Fox)
Dale Brown Shapiro CHS '86
December 18, 2013
Mr Ambler had the gift of making learning fun! He loved to teach and it was obvious. He even took his personal time outside of school to let us come over and watch movies in his cinema room. I am so glad I was fortunate enough to be in his class.
Jeff Marian
December 18, 2013
So sorry to hear of Mr. Ambler's death. As a student at E.P. Mr. Ambler gave me a deeper love for learning. He had a gift for making students believe they mattered. I was a better student and am a better person because of his passion for life and learning. So grateful for his life and influence.
David Blyweiss
December 18, 2013
I am so incredibly saddened by this terrible loss. Chas was my best friend when we were colleagues at Elkins Park Middle School from 1972-83. He truly inspired me and was both a mentor and friend. Chas and his wife Maria are such wonderful people. I will forever keep them and their children in my prayers. Thank you, Chas, for helping me so much. I will forever love and miss you. David Blyweiss
Stephen Lewenson
December 18, 2013
So sorry to hear of this loss. He was by far one of my best teachers I ever had. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Peter Knappenberger
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler was a rare gem of a teacher: knowledgeable, enthusiastic, supportive, and just plain fun. He was always willing to chat after class about life, movies, or whatever was on my mind. His was a life well-lived. may his memory be a blessing to his family & friends.
Chelsea Cutting-Foster
December 18, 2013
My condolences to the family! I learned to appreciate Spaghetti Westerns as a student in his class. He was an inspirational teacher!
i think we had a surprise party for you!
Gail Hockstein-Chase
December 18, 2013
To Mr. Ambler - my 7, 8, and 9th grade english & cinema movie teacher who made an impact on many of our lives, I am forever grateful.
Mr. Ambler – I will always remember our trips to Schwenksville, and when you, mr. blyweiss & mr. cassidy loaded up your cars & took us to the phillies games, the movie nights either at your apartment or in someone's basement, teaching us how to film animation & for being one of the best teachers I ever had.
Mr. Ambler – not only were you classic, but you taught us all the classics – Ship of fools, enter the dragon, maltese falcon, any charles bronson, bruce lee, or clint eastwood movie, valley of the gwangi, and perhaps one of my all time favorites, when bambi met godzilla!
To the world you were one of millions, but to me you will always be one in a million. I know that you're in heaven right now putting your leg up on a desk with your cowboy boots on & showing a film! All my love - gail hockstein chase - ep class of 1976!
December 18, 2013
This is so shocking and sad. Mr. Ambler was by far my favorite teacher and mentor. He has shaped my life tremendously and has been a dear friend to my family as well. He will be truly missed and I will always remember him (especially when I see a Clint Eastwood film!)
Nancy (Reinhart) Epstein
CHS Class of '79
Elkins Park Jr. High Class of '76
MaryFaith Hargadon
December 18, 2013
Thank you Mr. Ambler for being such a dedicated and caring teacher. I learned so much from you and looked forward to your class every week. Even today when I see the movie "The Magnificent Seven" or "A Fistful of Dollars" I think of you and my time in your class. As I now work in the school setting I know first hand how much time, patience and a compassionate spirit one must have to be a teacher and Mr. Ambler, you had them all. God Bless you and your family.
Karen Binder
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler was truly one of the best teachers I ever knew in high school. I can fondly remember the times he'd hold movie nights in the cinema room, showing nothing but trailers for old westerns! He touched the hearts of so many of us at such an impressionable time of our lives, and will be greatly missed.
Dale Polter Cardarelli
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler was by far the best English teacher I ever had. You never minded entering his classroom. He was always the teacher you looked forward to seeing. He was instrumental in many lives as everyone can read in these posts. Sincere condolences to his family as he was much too young to pass.
December 18, 2013
Charles was such a cheerful and optimistic asset to Cheltenham High School. The faculty and students were fortunate to have known him. Mauriel S. Holland
Eden Winick
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler's class was the best part of the school day. He taught with joy and humor and set an incredible example for all of his students. Haven't seen him in 25 years, and can still hear his voice and see his face. English and Literature came alive in his class. What a truly amazing teacher. Condolences to his family.
Andrew Fine
December 18, 2013
I am a better person having known and learned from Mr. Ambler. You will be truly missed... God bless you!!
Cheryl Goldberg
December 18, 2013
Maria I was saddened to hear about Chas. When my kids speak of favorite teachers his name is always mentioned. He was loved by all his students. My sincerest sympathy to you and your family.
Patty Subin
December 18, 2013
I was so sorry to hear about Mr. Ambler's passing. He was my favorite teacher at CHS and I have very fond memories of him. I always looked forward to his class as he had a joke to share that would brighten the entire room. Rest easy, Mr. Ambler. You will be missed.
Amy Marble-Freimiller
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler was truly a gifted teacher. He taught with love and passion, he was definitely my favorite teacher! He will truly be missed. RIP Mr. Ambler.
Ray Jacobs
December 18, 2013
I am so saddened to hear of his passing! He was absolutely my favorite teacher @ CHS. The reason he was a GREAT teacher is because he absolutely loved his job, and could relate to his students with his sense of humor! He will be missed by many! CHS class of '83
Nicole Teti
December 18, 2013
Mr Ambler was truly THE BEST teacher. He really cared about his students. What a character he was too. Could always bank on him for a laugh! I will never eat Taco Bell or watch a spaghetti western without thinking of him. RIP.
Terry Moon
December 18, 2013
Many great memories of Chaz!! Mr. Ambler always encouraged me to do my best! Got me reading in the summers by suggesting I read Carter Brown and Doctor Who novellas, even comic books to keep my brain active. A wonderful influence in my life in so many ways.... He shall never be forgotten in this 10thgraders life!!!
Larry & Pennie Lieberher
December 18, 2013
It is always difficult to lose a loved one, but especially at this time of year. We send our condolences to you and your family. We will always remember the good times we had together, and there were many!
December 18, 2013
Many great memories of Chas!! Mr. Ambler always encouraged me to do my best! Got me reading in the summers by suggesting I read Carter Brown and Doctor Who novellas, even comic books to keep my brain active. A wonderful influence in my life in so many ways.... He shall never be forgotten in this 10thgraders life!!!
Chris Black
December 18, 2013
Dear Ambler Family, I share in your greif for losing such a wonderful man and a great person. He challenged us in school to THINK, inspired us to do so and made things relevant always. Even after 30 years I remember him most vividly and his teaching. I am saddened for your loss, please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Heather Israel (Pagden)
December 18, 2013
I am so saddened by his passing. I hadn't seen Mr. Ambler in many years, but somehow I thought he'd always be around. Although he may have gone on to join the cowboys in that great western in the sky, Mr. Ambler's legacy lives on through the hundreds, if not thousands, of students lucky enough to have had him. He is the reason I became a teacher.
Jillian (Geld) Alexander
December 18, 2013
Prayers and thoughts to the Ambler family at this time. I only met Mr Ambler once, but I went to McKinley with Greg and knew both Greg and Jessie in junior high.
Monica Carroll
December 18, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to Ambler family in this time of sorrow. Mr. Ambler was one of the finest teachers I had at CHS. Thank you for sharing his life with so many.
Brian Smith
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler was truly one of the greatest teachers. Teaching wasn't just a job to him. He cared about us students. You know a teacher is a success when the students look forward to his class. I always think of him when I watch Clint Eastwood or John Wayne westerns. God Bless you, Sir. And thank you for contributing to my wonderful childhood memories.
Alicia Brennan
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler, you truly were an original and such a joy to be around! Remembering your personality and sense of humor still make me laugh and I haven't seen you in 15 years, since I graduated. You were one of my favorite teacher's, I was just talking about you the other day. You made such an impact on so many lives, gone but never forgotten! May you Rest in Peace.
Melissa Monserrat (Ryan)
December 18, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Ambler family....Mr. Ambler, you were my favorite teacher and because of you I learned how to write and write well. I'll always remember the fun times in your class. Rest in heaven now.
Rick Schnabel
December 18, 2013
Without a doubt, one of the finest teachers I ever had and a wonderful man as well. He touched so many in such a positive and caring manner. May he rest in peace.
Bob Solomon
December 18, 2013
So sorry to hear of his passing. A truly wonderful teacher. His love of movies was infectious and made his classes so memorable. He was a very positive influence on so many students, he will be remembered by so many CHS grads fondly.
Norma McCauley
December 18, 2013
Maria I am so sorry for your loss. Norma(Dr Pedicino's office )
Jon Slott
December 18, 2013
Mr Ambler was a great teacher and a real good person, enjoyed having known Mr Ambler.
Maria C. Dirina
December 18, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Ambler Family.Mr.Ambler was a wonderful person and a fabulous teacher.
Patti McGinnis-Cannon
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler made High School English ROCK!!! I always loved his class. He was so special to all of us and will surely be missed. God Bless you and our prayers are with you. God only takes the special Angels in our lives at Christmas!
December 18, 2013
Chaz was a warm,caring teacher who was well-loved by many. My prayers and thoughts are with you as remember him in your special way.
Lori Pancione
CHS
Mike Smith
December 18, 2013
Mr Ambler was my favorite teacher, I will always remember the good times! Rest in Peace
Little Jennie Harper
December 18, 2013
Mr.Ambler was THE BEST teacher I've ever had thecpleasure of learning from. His humor, wit & wisdom inspired countless students to lead successful lives. You'll be missed very much. RIP
Chris Hearn
December 18, 2013
Maria I sorry for your loss. Chas was a great teacher a great friend and he will be missed.
janet vart
December 18, 2013
I will always remember Chas as a young man with a smiling cherubic face. His use of films as a teaching devise made learning fun. It was always his desire to share what he loved. To dear Maria, my heartfelt sympathy.
Sarah
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler was one of the best teachers at CHS. He will truly be missed!
Hinton
December 18, 2013
Mr Ambler u were the best teacher i ever had.....the most fun ever .....I pray u rest in peace....
Pete LaRue
December 18, 2013
So sorry for your loss. Chas affected my life in many ways and he will be truly missed
Lance Charen
December 18, 2013
Mr. Ambler was one of my favorite teachers at EP. He made learning interesting and fun. I don't remember all of my teachers, but I will never forget the great ones and he was certainly on that list.
Bruce Barsky
December 18, 2013
Chas was person who has touched the lives 100's of children in a very positive way. He will be missed by his family and colleagues and friends. Rest in Peace
Gerry Austin
December 18, 2013
Maria, I am so sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences. May the loving memories help comfort you as your family grieves.
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