Charles Stanford

1949 - 2021

Charles Stanford
June 17, 1949 - October 8, 2021
Brookings, Oregon - Charles Williams Stanford left this world October 8th, 2021 in Brookings, Oregon. He was born in Overland Park, Kansas to Lorraine (Williams) and Henry Stanford. He attended UMKC and received a degree in psychology. His first job was as Art Director at the Gillis Home for Children, where he met his wife, Mary. He made many close friendships there that lasted long after he had moved on to pursue other careers.
He was the director of Big Brothers and the MS Society, however his life long interest in magic led to a long and successful career as a magician, even after being accepted to medical school. He worked for corporate 500 companies as a trade show magician for many years. He then created a company named Stanford Productions that provided entertainment for corporate events throughout the country. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.
In the mid 80's Chuck became interested in Tibetan Buddhism and spent many years devoted to study with venerable Tibetan teachers. He made a pilgrimage to Tibet and many trips to India where he attended teachings from HH Dalai Lama. He was ordained a Lama and opened the Rime Center of Peace and Compassion. He had a strong belief in interfaith dialogue. He was a member of The Interfaith Council of Greater Kansas City and received many awards for his efforts in promoting peace and unity. He was a chaplain at many local prisons, teaching Buddhism and mediation practice to the inmates. In addition, Lama Chuck had written a monthly column on Buddhism for the religion section of the Kansas City Star since 1995.
Every New Year's Eve Lama Chuck hosted an event at the Rime Center for people from all faiths to pray for world peace. His beloved friend, Alvin Brooks along with with representatives of all the faith communities in Kansas City would speak, sing, and offer prayers for peace in the coming year.
Lama Chuck was an author of several books, a teacher, a leader, and a man of great vision and compassion. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Mary, his daughter, Lauren, his son Matthew, his daughter-in-law Amanda, his two fantastic grandsons, Quest and Roam, his brother Barry, and his step-mother Mary E. Stanford. He leaves behind two nieces, a nephew, cousins, and many beloved friends. He was so very grateful to all his teachers and their profound wisdom and blessings.
A special prayer service will be held for Lama Chuck on November 26th at 6pm at The Rime Center, 2939 Wayne Ave., Kansas City, MO 64109
In lieu of flowers please make donations to The Rime Center