A. Charles "Chuck" Wilson

A. Wilson Obituary

June 1924 - November 8, 2025 A. Charles "Chuck" Wilson, a decorated World War II veteran, attorney and co-founder of Ernest Packaging Solutions, died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on November 8. He was 101. Born June 16, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Wilson and his older brother Ernest were raised by their widowed mother, Minnie, during the Depression. Growing up with simple means and strong values instilled in him an enduring sense of generosity and empathy, all thanks to his mom. Wilson served in the U.S. Army in Europe during WWII. During a battle in the Hagenau Forest of Germany, he disregarded his own injuries and carried multiple wounded soldiers to safety, earning him a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for heroism. After the war, Wilson moved to Los Angeles and in 1946 joined his brother in launching Ernest Paper Company from a one-car garage. The two men were the only employees, personally delivering orders. Meanwhile Wilson pursued a law degree, earning his J.D. from the USC Gould School of Law in 1950 and maintaining an active legal practice into his nineties. Under his leadership, Ernest Paper evolved into Ernest Packaging Solutions, a global packaging design and supply-chain firm headquartered in Los Angeles with multiple locations in the U.S. Wilson served as chairman and CEO for decades, shaping the company's entrepreneurial ethos. Wilson married Betty Seigel in 1954, and they shared a long and happy life together until her passing in 2009. He is survived by his son Tim, daughter Minda, as well as four grandchildren Henry, Matthew, Michelle and Sari who knew him as "Papa" as well as his wife Joan Cohen Wilson and her daughters Fanya and Natalie. Tim Wilson serves as President of Ernest Packaging Solutions. Beyond business and law, Wilson devoted himself to community service across the Los Angeles area. On his 100th birthday, local honors highlighted his decades of volunteer work with organizations including JVS SoCal. They also noted Wilson still arrived at work at 9 a.m. sharp as a centenarian. Those who worked with Wilson say his sense of humor, his personability and genuine care for others formed the foundation of Ernest's culture. "Give more to others than to yourself," he often said. "Be humble and you'll get back ten-fold." To honor his memory, the family invites donations to JVS SoCal or to a veterans' organization of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times from Nov. 11 to Nov. 12, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for A. Wilson

9 Entries

Terry Vu

November 18, 2025

I thought him a cool gentleman with stories to tell; stories of incredible feats overcoming incredible odds, stories of the Great Depression and being a part of the frontlines of WW2, coming home to a supportive brother and working even till his last days. I always asked what his secret to being so long lived and he always gave small joking answers, but I think that therein lies his secret. Despite weathering the dark parts of humanity and history, to have strength to push on forward for those around him, to be able to smile and make light for those around you, to always keep occupied fighting the good fight.

It meant a lot to me when he called our group his buddies. We'll always save a seat for you, my friend.

Oscar Medina and Laura Zamora

November 16, 2025

My Wife and I loved Chuck, mine you my wife never met Chuck but I would always speak of him right after I got home from work at the Farmers Market as he would sit with us and tell us stories of his younger days and how he went to law school and open up his business that he ran with brother. He also mentioned that he took spanish in college for 1 year and would proceed speaking to us en Español "Como estan? Estamos bien?" Just to give us that facial expression ( not to shabby, for only one year? ) Chuck I'm honored to have met someone as amazing as you and how humble you turned out to be. I'm grateful to be have considered one of your Farmers Market Buddies. My Wife also go to learned from you and boy o boy I felt like I almost lost her to you Chuck ha ha ha we will all miss you. May you Rest In Piece.

Ryan Winterstern

November 13, 2025

Chuck was the best. Loved sitting with him at lunch time or in the locker room and hearing his stories.

He was a true gem.

My condolences to Joan and his family.

AJ and Mia Bernard

November 13, 2025

We love Chuck. We saw him just about every Sunday at the farmers market for more than 2 decades. I would ask him how he was doing. His reply was the same every time. "I keep telling you it´s who am I doing, I am a lawyer" then when I would correct myself, he would reply "anyone I can" God I miss Chuck already. The humor and the smile he had was amazing.

Trio-Tech International

November 13, 2025

Trio-Tech International honors the life, and legacy of our esteemed former Chairman, A. Charles Wilson, whose leadership, vision and integrity inspired all who had the privilege to work alongside him.

In his memory, we have made a contribution to JVS So Cal, reflecting his
lifelong commitment to supporting veterans.

His impact will continue to guide us and his spirit will remain part of our company forever.

Ariana Gutierrez

November 13, 2025

Thank you for your service Mr Wilson, it was a pleasure to meet you and be part of your company. You were more than a Hero on earth.

Lee from NB

November 11, 2025

Another hero of the greatest generation resting in peace!
Thank you for fighting for our country and saving fellow servicemen. May your family be blessed and comforted with memories of your remarkable life.

LOUIS Chertkow

November 11, 2025

Heartfelt Condolences to Tim and Family.
Charles was a legend in the Industry.
LK Packaging
Louis and Doron Chertkow

Sarah and Paul Hess

November 11, 2025

We only had the privilege of meeting Chuck once, but it was a day we will never forget. What an incredible life he lived. May his memory be a blessing.

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results