Charles Whitt
January 26, 1943 - December 19, 2024
Charles "Chuck" Whitt, 81, of Mason City, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Born on January 26, 1943, in Mason City, to John Roger and Harriett Jane (Abbott) Whitt, Chuck lived a life rich in love, laughter, and hard work.
One of three children, Chuck grew up attending country school and Clear Lake High School before graduating from Mason City High School in 1961. He continued his education at Mason City Junior College before heading to Colorado for a short time. From 1964 until 1966, Chuck proudly served in the United States Army where he was stationed in Germany and achieved a rank of E-5. However, his heart belonged to Iowa, and following his honorable discharge he returned home to build a life deeply rooted in family and community.
Chuck met the love of his life, Sandy Rieber, on a blind date arranged by mutual friends. The two were married in July of 1968 at St. Mark's Catholic Church in Iowa Falls. The couple began their life together in Iowa Falls, where Chuck worked for Sinclair Oil and Miller Chemical. Soon after, an opportunity to move back to Mason City and begin farming on his uncle's farm brought Chuck and Sandy back to the community he loved.
Chuck took immense pride in his family, which grew to include his children, Tony and Lani; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he enjoyed sharing his passions with those he loved. Chuck had a lifelong enthusiasm for hunting and fishing, restoring classic cars and tractors, and collecting vintage feed and seed signs. A skilled craftsman, he built his own street rod and was an avid woodworker, showcasing his talent and dedication.
Travel was another joy for Chuck and Sandy. Together, they explored the world, including memorable trips to Japan and Singapore, but they always cherished the connections they built at home. Chuck was a familiar face in Mason City, known for his generosity and sociability. He relished time spent over coffee with his regular group of friends, sharing stories, laughter, and camaraderie.
Chuck expanded his endeavors, owning and operating Charles Whitt Trucking and Whitt Chemical and Supply, all while continuing his farming work. His tireless work ethic and commitment to excellence earned him respect and admiration from all who knew him. He is a long time member of Epiphany Parish-Holy Family Catholic Church and the American Legion.
Those grateful in sharing in his life include his wife, Sandy Whitt; children, Tony Whitt, Mason City, and Lani (Jeff) Lonning, Van Meter; grandchildren, Cierra, Sterling (Kellie), Bailey (Max) and Taylor (Danny); great-grandchildren, Hayes, Oaklyn, Malcolm, Baylee, Chase, and Montana; siblings, Sharon Ott and Jack (Debbie) Whitt; and in-laws, Mick (Shirley) Rieber, Mary Jo Craig, Ron Rieber, Dave (Lois) Rieber, Patti (Dave) Anderson, and Tami (Dave) Mottet.
He is preceded in death by his parents and father and mother in law, Lloyd and Rosemary Rieber.
A Memorial Mass will be held 10:30 a.m., Monday, December 30, 2024, at Epiphany Parish-Holy Family Catholic Church, 722 N. Adams Ave., Mason City, with Rev. Ben Valentine as Celebrant. Military honors will be provided by members of the American Legion of Manly.
Visitation will be held Sunday afternoon, December 29, 2024, at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel, 126 3rd St NE, Mason City from 2 to 5 p.m., and will resume one hour prior to Chuck's service at the church on Monday.
Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel
126 3rd St NE.
Mason City, IA
ColonialChapels.com(641)423-2372
Published by Globe Gazette on Dec. 26, 2024.