Charles Cheatham

1927 - 2012

Charles (Chuck) Cheatham September 14, 1927 - March 17, 2012 Charles Homer Cheatham was born September 14, 1927, to Charlie and Vivian Cheatham in Abilene, Texas. Following the family drilling business, they moved on to Wyoming and eventually settled in California, where Chuck attended Venice High School graduating in 1945. It is there that he met and fell in love with Lorna Dee Gretch. Chuck attended and played football at Loyola College, Chuck left college before graduation and enlisted in the Navy, a true patriot, Chuck was proud to serve his country. After an honorable discharge, Chuck returned home and in August 1949, Chuck and Lorna were married and settled in Bakersfield, CA, where they raised their two sons Denny and Mike. Chuck spent his entire career in the structural steel fabrication business with Griffin Steel, Kern Steel and Hopper Inc., he truly loved his work. Chuck was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a true friend. He was happiest surrounded by his Bride along with their family and friends sharing stories and a few good laughs. If you were to add a fishing pole, a good horse pushing along a herd, shooting squirrels, the beep of his metal detector finding his latest treasure, and a cold yellow belly or two Chuck's day would have been complete. Lorna preceded Chuck in death in 2003, though Chuck's faith never wavered, his courage became tested when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. He faced that challenge like any other put before him with dignity and strength. In his final days in the true "Chuck Cheatham" way, he made sure that his family was safe and quietly returned home forever to dance with his bride. Chuck is proudly survived by sons Dennis (Michelle) Cheatham of Glennville, CA and Mike (Pam) Cheatham of Bakersfield. Granddaughters Krystal Selby, Michelle Lanham, Jennifer Machado, Tracy Proffitt and Ellie Cheatham and 10 Great-Grandchildren. It was a long Journey but with everyone's help and prayers he is safely home. A special thanks to Pacifica Memory Care. The services will be held Saturday, March 24th, at 10:30am at Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary. www.bakersfield.com/obits