Charles Stroud

Charles Stroud

of Poulsbo

Nov. 19, 1928

to Jan. 17, 2013

Veteran

Sergeant Major Charles Stroud (USMC) died last week. He was a 40-year resident of Poulsbo where his wife, Bernice Nesby, was part of a pioneer family.

He was born in 1928 in Nebraska. Too young for World War II, he joined the Marine Corps in 1946. He was a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars. His father was in the Army during World War I and his grandfather served in the Fifth Iowa Cavalry during the Civil War.

He and his wife owned the historic Bjermeland house, built in 1886. Its bright blue color was inspired by Norwegian themes, and made it a landmark long before Poulsbo's new City Hall was built beside it. His strong civic interest led him to once run for mayor.

Stroud is survived by his children, Julie Karkainen, Ralph and Robert, all of Kitsap County. He had nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He loved his son and daughters-in-law as though they were his own kids.

He was a common sight in Poulsbo, having morning coffee and driving his car with its distinctive "MR CHUCK" license plates. He was a friendly man whose exceptional sense of humor will long be remembered by all who knew him. Despite his gruff exterior, he possessed a deep and abiding faith in Christ, due in large part to the faithful witness of his wife.

His funeral is Sunday, Jan. 27, at Miller-Woodlawn Cemetery in Bremerton. It begins at 1 p.m., followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be given various charities.