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BORN
1946
DIED
2010
Charlie Wedemeyer Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Charlie Wedemeyer
180 Entries
Horace Brown
October 6, 2018
Charlie's inner strength and courage was inspiring and should be a model for all, and not only for persons with ALS.
Peggy Lawrence
November 13, 2017
I just saw the movie about Charlie Wedemeyer this evening. I took care of an ALS patient as a respiratory therapist many years ago; and I was blown away with the dedication and sheer will that Charlie showed in the face of adversity! I hope that you and your childrens families took comfort knowing Charlie gave something more to your Los Gatos Community and showedmany people how to live.
Peggy Lawrence
November 13, 2017
I was a respiratory therapist who took care of an ALS patient (he had been a Golden Glove boxer) while I worked in a subacute nursing facility. I must say that I never saw so much dedication, strong will and determination than Charlie exhibited during his devastating illness! He taught his players a life lesson; and to never give up on themselves.
I am so very sorry to hear of Charlies passing in 2010. May you, your children and families know the strength, comfort and peace of the Lord.
Grace Lemos
October 7, 2013
He's an inspiration then, now and always.
Mark Worrell
December 26, 2012
To Lucy and Family,
Thank you so much for your unwavering testimony in Christ. You were a blessing to my family on numerous occaions--and a shining testimony of faith and trust in Christ alone! May God continue to bless you and your family.
Darlene Knutson
October 5, 2012
To Lucy and family, How proud we are of Charlie and the strength of the family. He certainly lived and fought a hard struggle. The many people and football players that had the priviledge to know and work with Charlie are better for it. Like my daughter Debi said My mother was Sally Wedemeyer York. Daughter of Rebecca Kaono Wedemeyer of Pukoa, Hawaii. My mom's siblings were Hanson, Irene, Penny, George, Mike, Jesse Wedemeyer of Honolulu. I am also familiar with Herman.
Debi Clayton (York)
May 24, 2012
To Lucy & Ohana....I watched the story that aired on televison Quiet Victory of Charlie Wedemeyer. I treasure it so much because Charlie is my cousin and I treasure my OHANA very much. My grandmother's name is Sally York and my moms name is Darlene.
God gave you a blessing in your heart and now Charlie will always be our forever angel above.
God Bless the family ...
A Friend
January 21, 2011
Charlie, I just saw of your passing and wanted to say thank you and Aloha---RIP from a friend who was inspired by you to change his life August 15, 1988.
Paul Jones
January 19, 2011
Dear Lucy and family, Having just found out about Charlies passing I am deeply sorry for your loss and as we all know heaven got a special one. I worked breifly for Charlie at Lincoln School in Flint Michigan as a teen.After reading Charlies Victory i was amazed at Charlie and Lucy,s accomplishments on and off the field.What a great team. May God Bless You Paul Jones
August 31, 2010
To Lucy and family..my sincerest condolenses on the passing of Charlie. I viewed the story when it was on TV and enjoyed it immensely. Thank you for sharing your message through this movie of hope and love through the hard times of Charlies illness. God Bless you all.
Sinerely
Jeff Crawford
Rose Arnaudo
August 31, 2010
Lucy and family,
I just finished reading Quiet Victory--What an inspiration. I have been Roman Catholic all my life and am more in tune with God because of you and Charlie. Our prayers are with you and your family. Thank you.
Rose Arnaudo and family--Don '59, Claudia '86, Stefan '96 and Anna '98.
August 10, 2010
It was with great sadness that I read of Charlie's death in the Punahou Bulletin. I did not know Charlie, but I attended Punahou my junior and senior years and of course knew who he was. I have followed his story thru the movie and the Bulletin. His family's love and devotion have touched far more people than they will ever know.
Ann(Traynham '66)Joyner
July 13, 2010
Dear Lucy and Family,
May the Lord's special blessings be with you and all your family. You have been an inspiration to many as well as has Charlie. We all know that Charlie is in a better place now. Best wishes in the future to you.
Allen K. Coryell, LGHS Principal, 1971-1978
Allen Coryell
July 13, 2010
Dear Lucy and Family,
May the Lord's special blessings be with you and all your family. You have been an inspiration to many as well as has Charlie. We all know that Charlie is in a better place now. Best wishes in the future to you.
Allen K. Coryell, LGHS Principal, 1971-1978
Paula (Butler) Cardozo LGHS Class of 1978
July 7, 2010
Coach Wedemeyer was one of my favorite teachers in high school- He made such a positive and lasting impression and instantly gained trust and respect from all of us. I will never forget him.
Pamela (Dobson) Diaz
June 22, 2010
Lucy, Carri and Kale,
I was saddened to hear of Charlie's passing. Despite the short few months I worked for you in 1997, the loving spirit that your family projected onto everyone you came into contact with has traveled with me throughout these years. I pray that God will comfort you in your time of loss.
Much love and aloha,
Kent Gerber
June 22, 2010
Lucy, Kale, Carri, and Family,
It has been a real blessing to have had Charlie be part of my life as a high school student athlete. Charlie was able to communicate everything you needed to know with a simple look - a scowl for a poorly executed play on the field or a smile for something done well. I can tell you that everybody wanted to earn that smile from Charlie. It was quite a reward. His teachings to us at the time may have been on the football field but the lessons went way beyond mere athletics. A special thanks for showing the strength of your family to us all. I am sure that putting your family in the public eye could not have been easy but we have certainly benefited from your efforts. You are all truly Angels.
We'll miss you Coach.
Jill (Morrow) Gumina
June 21, 2010
Dearest Lucy,
I am so sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. You, Charlie and your children have been an inspiration to millions in showing that love transcends all. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Much love to you during this very sorrowful time,
Jill
Rose and Sam
June 21, 2010
Our prayers for healing from the loss and missing your life partner are being said daily.
He is whole again and eating.....and doesn't have to worry about the calories.....
We love you Lucy,Kari and family and Kale and family.
Ron and Diane Calcagno
June 20, 2010
Dear Lucy:
We were so sad to learn that Charlie passed away. He was such a wonderful man and an inspiration to all of us. The night of the San Jose Sports Authority Hall of Fame dinner I introduced you to one of Ron's former players, Peter Hinojosa class of '83 @ SF, who has ALS and you both took the time to talk with Pete and his brother. I want you to know that that meant the world to Pete. He was thrilled that he got to meet you and Charlie and I thank you and Charlie for taking the time to do that. We are glad that we were able to visit with you both that night and we will never forget the memories. I will never forget that beautiful smile Charlie always had. Our love and prayers are with you, Carri, Kale and your grandchildren.
Love, Ron and Diane Calcagno
Maile Makua
June 20, 2010
Dear cousin,
Angels rejoice at your homecoming. You've left a legacy of love and a lasting testimony of Jesus throughout your lifetime. Your light will be missed.
Love and aloha 'oe,
descendants of Daniel Crowder
G Fanelli
June 20, 2010
I had tears of sadness that turned then to tears of joy about the news of Coach’s passing. I had the great privilege to be coached by Charlie during my Jr. & Sr. years at LGHS 1982 and 1983 seasons. Aside from my own earthly father no other man has made a greater impact on my life. Coach’s life is was and will always be an inspiration to me. It is difficult and near impossible to find the words to describe all that I am feeling as I write this. I am a better man for knowing him as well as his wife Lucy and children Carrie and Kale. My tears of joy mentioned above come from knowing that Coach is completely whole again as GOD has promised and GOD always takes what most people see as impossible to prove that GOD is bigger than any of our problems here on earth. Coach was a living testament of this while I was in High School and later in life as I would get married and have children and now grandchildren. I am still learning from Coach and Lucy’s examples of truly loving someone in the way they love each other. Inclosing I can close my eyes and transport myself to those days at LGHS football field (sights, sounds and smells) and see how Coach taught us more about Life and Love then he did about the game of Football and for that I will always be truly grateful and humbled for knowing him. #29 1982/83
Connie Williams
June 20, 2010
Charlie, you are an inspiration to everyone that knew you and to many that never had the pleasure. You touched my heart and left your footprints that will never fade. I love you and will continue to speak of you often as my hero.
Love,
Connie Richardson Williams
General Math 1974
Los Gatos High School class of 1978
dennis
June 20, 2010
Your spirit lives on...the day you passed i was at the gym and noticed a few high school kids with los gatos jerseys on and i thought of you...and wondered how you were doing...little did i know you were now able to reach me through spirit...god bless
Michele Powers
June 19, 2010
Thank you for your message of hope in the living of your lives devoted to each other. My grandfather passed away from ALS before I was born but his memory was kept alive by family. The world needs stories of love and hope like yours. God bless you.
Debbie Liles Hamilton
June 18, 2010
Mr. Wedemeyer was my freshman math teacher at LGHS in 76/77. I can remember the room and even where he was standing when he told us not to be alarmed if he dropped something, stumbled, or even fell down. That he had a disease but not to worry, that he would be fine. I think his words stayed with me because it was unusual for a teacher to be so candid with students about something so personal. Of course later, as his disease progressed, I'm sure all of us recalled his words that day.
Now I read that he wasn't diagnosed until 1978. Even so, he must have known from symptoms he was experiencing in 1976, that something was terribly wrong. He was right though that he was going to be fine. He lived a full, productive life and touched so many people.
I remember when he brought the baseball team from his high school in Hawaii to Los Gatos to play our boys. It was exciting to have those Hawaiian boys visit our school!
All these years I've followed him, his activities, the documentary, the movie and have been proud of him and proud to have known him in the classroom.
Lucy, I never met you, but you have been an inspiration. I'm so sorry for your loss.
LGHS Class of 1980
Joy Casas
June 17, 2010
About 10 years ago, I saw Charlie speak through Lucy at Calvary. What an inspiration and picture of hope. I was a brand new Christian, and his inspiration will always be with me. Thank you Charlie for reminding me I can do all things through Christ. I know you are dancing in heaven! God, be with Lucy and the family.
Kevin Kleinsmith
June 16, 2010
Charlie Thank You for your leadership, guidance, example of not only a coach but a man and inspiration to the not only our school but to so many. I was fortunate enough to have played for him, but only learned later of his greater accomplishments and struggles from the movie. May God comfort the family and give peace.
Alex Ghanavati # 16
June 15, 2010
Coach Wedemeyer un retired his jersey number "16" for my son Alex Ghanavati.. During Alex's four years @ Los Gatos High School Coach and his wife Lucy were an inspiration to us all. During this time I was very ill.., I never missed a practice or a game. Coach allowed me to sit on the field..I knew each and every boy, their strengths and personalities.. I witnessed how Coach inspired them to grow from boys to young men with character. One day Coach asked me how I felt, and I said "Fine Coach" and he said "Are you taking care of yourself? I am worried" Perhaps I was feel badly for myself but at that moment I looked up at him struggling with tears in my eyes.. the whole world had a new perspective. And I replied " Coach.. if you can get here I can get here" and Coach said.."Good girl!" and winked at me. There were so many precious moments during our 4 years.. so many victories on so many levels.. None so much (on the field) as the last 3 minutes of a winning game; Wildcats against the Falcons. After the winning goal Alex the teams star running back, my son, came running down the field full speed with the team, I was next to Coach.. Alex and the team sliding towards coach in the rain and mud Alex with helmet in hand shouts with tears in his eyes" Coach you made me what I am. what we all are" to the cheers of the entire team.. this was on television.. as many of his years in football were. To this day there isnt a week that goes by that I don’t meet someone who's life he and Lucy have touched. Their famous tamales and more importantly their determined faith in God and life have helped us and will continue to inspire us for generations.
Coach Wedemeyer... we love you and will remember you always.
In deep appreciation and love
Sara Werp and Alex Ghanavati #16
Sara and Alex
sara Ghanavati Werp
June 15, 2010
Coach Wedemeyer un retired his jersey number "16" for my son Alex Ghanavati.. During Alex's four years @ Los Gatos High School Coach and his wife Lucy were an inspiration to us all. During this time I was very ill.., I never missed a practice or a game. Coach allowed me to sit on the field..I knew each and every boy, their strengths and personalities.. I witnessed how Coach inspired them to grow from boys to young men with character. One day Coach asked me how I felt, and I said "Fine Coach" and he said "Are you taking care of yourself? I am worried" Perhaps I was feel badly for myself but at that moment I looked up at him struggling with tears in my eyes.. the whole world had a new perspective. And I replied " Coach.. if you can get here I can get here" and Coach said.."Good girl!" and winked at me. There were so many precious moments during our 4 years.. so many victories on so many levels.. None so much (on the field) as the last 3 minutes of a winning game; Wildcats against the Falcons. After the winning goal Alex the teams star running back, my son, came running down the field full speed with the team, I was next to Coach.. Alex and the team sliding towards coach in the rain and mud Alex with helmet in hand shouts with tears in his eyes" Coach you made me what I am. what we all are" to the cheers of the entire team.. this was on television.. as many of his years in football were. To this day there isnt a week that goes by that I don’t meet someone who's life he and Lucy have touched. Their famous tamales and more importantly their determined faith in God and life have helped us and will continue to inspire us for generations.
Coach Wedemeyer... we love you and will remember you always.
In deep appreciation and love
Sara Werp and Alex Ghanavati #16
Don Ardissone
June 15, 2010
Lucy and Family: I was deeply saddened by the news of Charlie's passing. We all know how courageous he has been over all the years. But, I can not believe the courage that you and your family have shown. You were there above and beyond what anyone else could comprehend.
I'm sorry I will not be at Charlie's service - I will be back in Omaha at the College World Series. If anyone could excuse me from missing that day, Charlie would knowing I was at a ballgame!
I got to know Charlie (and you) during my time at Los Gatos HS. What an unbelievable inspiration he was to me then and will always continue to be. God bless you and your family.
Coach Don Ardissone
June 15, 2010
To Charlie's Family: What an inspiration thru the whole time I knew Charlie (early 70's thru 1990). I saw him in many venue many time and he always made you feel important and good with his smile even though things seemed so helpless to us. Thanks Charlie, Mike Devine
Grant and Anita Rollin
June 14, 2010
As a fellow MSU alum, Chalie and I used to reminisce about the ND's failure not to go for the win in the famous 10-10 tie (a very frustrating game for him to play).
As a father of two LG QBs who were both greatly affected by their association with Charlie, I will be forever grateful. What is often missing in discussion of Charlie is his incredible sense of humor. My kids and others often tell of stories that still make them smile such as dinners at the local burger joint where he loved the taste (or in his case the smell) of the burgers and fries.
A remarkable man...a remarkable family...a remarkable life...a remarkable legacy
Steve McAlpine
June 11, 2010
Dear Lucy,Carrie and Kale - I had the great privledge of seeing Charlie play football at MSU in 1966-67. Duffy D did wonderful thing when he recruited Charlie, Dick Kenny and Bob Apsia from Hawaii creating quite a legend at MSU. In 1979 when I got hired at LGHS and got to meet him it was a true inspiration for me. He was such an icon of football in my short career as a coach. I'll always cherish those memories. The story doesn't stop there my son Nick also got to experience Charlie's influence when he played Frosh/Soph for him in 1998. The memories of that eperience and the "Thursday Brownines" really hold a wonderful memory for Nick and my family.
Your family is a true inspiration for all of us in LG and beyond.
Duffy now has his wingback in the backfield once again.
Just as a note, I think Butch should rename the Wingback counter to the Wedemeyer Special. Everytime I see that play of think of Charlie and his years at MSU.
My prayers are with you all.
Sincerely,
Steve McAlpine
April Eberle
June 9, 2010
I was blessed to have met him almost 15 years ago. Thanks to my Uncle Arny. I have always had the highest respect for him and his family. I have and will always remember our visit.
Arny Garza
June 9, 2010
Charlie, you and I had alot in common. God put you in my life for a season, so that I could believe it was possible for me to change in areas I didn't believe could to changed. I was blessed to be a part of your life, along with Lisa. You blessed us as my Best Man at our wedding, you blessed us when you received Malia(Mimi) and Cecilia(Ceci) on your chest just after there birth, you blessed us with laughter nearly losing our life in the process or laughing so hard we all thought we would die.
You taught us what hard work was, beginning before the sun rises, not ending till midnight or later, while Lucy and you did most of the work. For both of you though, it wasn't work, it was service or serving others. Lucy and you modeled Jesus, He came to serve, not to be served.
This is what I will take from you Charlie, I will serve as you have served.
Lord, I ask for your continued blessings in the lives of Lucy, Carrie and Kale, spouses, children and great-grandchildren yet to come. May they all come to serve You and others even greater then Lucy and Charlie.
Touchdown, Charlie Wedemeyer!!!
June 9, 2010
Thank you Charlie for your inspiration that your life gave to all of us.
Our love and prayers go out to Lucy and family. May God lighten the pain and sadness of your loss.
The McKenzie Family (Los Gatos)
Ron G
June 9, 2010
My prayers go out to the Wedemeyer family. I've gone through a similar situation with my late Mother. With my faith in God I know that Coach Wedemeyer is now safe and free of pain in heaven, and that God has big plans for him.
Peace
June 9, 2010
Dear Lucy,
On the morning of June 3, I checked in with the teacher at my school who is reading my autographed copy of Charlie's Victory. She explained to me that she was finding it hard to read because she is (naturally) angry with God for her physical limitations and wondered how worse things could be for her. Reading about his, and your, (supernatural) response to your situation was so convicting she is struggling to read it. A few hours later,I got the news of Charlie's Homecoming...news that saddened me because I didn't get to see you guys when I was down in Los Gatos in March and be able to tell you in person how often I share your testimony to many people. I think 2 verses summarize your lives. "For me to live is Christ, to die is gain" and "the joy of the Lord is my strength". I am so grateful to the nurse that boldly shared Christ with Charlie way back when and to the Downs' for sharing their faith with us back in 1979, making it possible for us to be related in His family. I have very fond memories of the U of O game we enjoyed together and your trip to Portland to speak at our church. Our lives have been enriched because of your example of unconditional love and your testimony of the Lord's grace and goodness. Hope to see you very soon and share in the celebration of Charlie's well-lived life. We are privileged to be upholding your family in prayer, along with numerous others, that you all will be overwhelmed by the peace of the Comforter during this unimaginably difficult time.
Thank you,
Donna (Woodworth) McGovert
LGHS Class of 1974
Andrew Fanelli
June 8, 2010
GREAT Man! It is a true honor to have know him and his entire family. Going to school with his son Kale, playing sports as well. Great memories! :-) One thing ME, Charlie, and Kale had in common was WE were ALL Black Belts and loved Martial Arts. :-) Rest in peace Charlie! God Bless the Entire Wedemeyer Family! Andrew Fanelli (LGHS - Class of 1988) Los Gatos Native & Business Owner
Spencer Boyer
June 8, 2010
Spencer Boyer
June 8, 2010
Lea (Junghaene) Hollenbeck (caregiver 89-91)
June 7, 2010
To the best employer, mentor, and friend....I will miss your big smile, your sense of humor, your patience with so many new employees over the years, and your inspirational words of wisdom!
To Lucy and family, may you be at peace in knowing how much God used Charlie in the lives of so many people around the world. Know that God himself is saying "Well done my good and faithful servant".
June 7, 2010
Our condolenses to your family. I will always appreciate your help when we needed to sell our Saratoga townhome. I'm glad you were able to spend all this time with Charlie.
James and Karen Thompson
Saratoga CA
James Simons
June 7, 2010
Though I never personally met the man I have followed his story through the years and have always been amazed at the strength and perserverance he and his family displayed. He is an inspiration to young athelets and arm chair quartebacks alike. He will be greatly missed. I wish prayerful and tearful sympathy to the family.
June 6, 2010
Lucy and family,
We have watched you and your family exhibit extraordinary love, strength and patience while caring for Charlie all these years. We have fond memories of hearing him speak on several occasions; and having fun with him while helping to build his "special room".
Jim & Sherry Valenta
Incline Village, NV
June 6, 2010
Lucy and Family, Charlie over the years has been an inspiration to so many people and so have each of you with your strength, love, and support you gave to Charlie. My Bruce died of ALS 9/7/08, I also went to Punahou and graduated from Los Gatos so Charlie has been one
I have kept abreast of throughout his journey to God's world these
past years. May you be blessed for all you have done for your husband and father. With Aloha, Pam (Beaumont) Anderson, San Rafael, CA.
LGHS (1959)
Lucy Cummings
June 6, 2010
Lucy & Family,
My family and I were so very fortunate to have known you and Charlie. He inspired all of us and was a wondeful coach to our sons, Sean and Aaron. I'll never forget the great spaghetti feeds and pep talks that we had at our house. I, as well as my late husband, Tom, enjoyed the friendship that we developed w/you and Charlie. We will never forget Charlie and we will miss him deeply. I loved his smiles, his kindness and his words of wisdom that he rendered to my sons as they excelled in football. Charlie touched our hearts w/his determination in coaching ALL our sons in the sport that he loved so well. We are truly thankful for his guidance. Our prayers and thoughts are with Lucy and her family. Our Love, Lucy Cummings and Family
June 5, 2010
Lucy and family, I am so thankful for the time I spent with Charlie and your family. Working and traveling with Charlie to some of his speaking engagements as well as caring for him are some of my favorite memories. Your are all in my prayers . Hope Snell
Richelle Griffin LGHS '89
June 5, 2010
What an incredible legacy and testament to God! Your family and your love of God was such an incredible testimony to me and to so many others! I have fond memories of being your "daughter" while touring with Calvary's youth group! Thank you for your courage and amazing faith!
Ann Browman
June 5, 2010
I was fortunate enough to meet Charlie in person about 20 years ago when my best friend Stephanie and I visited Charlie at home one evening. Stephanie worked as one of his personal care attendants in the late 80's. I also have a signed copy of his book. I have never forgotten how nice he was to both of us that evening. I have always remembered this because like Charlie, I have challenges of my own. Thank you, Charlie for showing me what courage looks like. I firmly believe that the reasons he defied the odds were because of his faith and his family. I will be praying for you all and I'll never forget Charlie. Thank you.
Ann Singh
June 5, 2010
Charlie, I was transformed by you during a reflective time in my life. Alot of what we talked about has come true. Of all the things I remember most is when I said "I love you" and you said I love you back to me just when I needed it the most. May God be with your family here and extended family and friends. Ann Singh, RN
June 5, 2010
Charlie was truly an inspiration to so many in the LG community and beyond. His joy of life and perseverence will be missed but I am sure never forgotten.
-Eric Waugh (LG 1988)
Ken Spalding
June 5, 2010
Rest well Charlie. Ken Spalding (Leigh High School Class of '75)
APRIL REINE FOLLETTE
June 5, 2010
MY FAMILY HAD THE HONOR TO KNOW CHARLIE WITH FIRST ME BACK IN THE 70'S (I WAS CLASS OF 1975) HAVING CHARLIE AS MY TEACHER (HE TAUGHT US HOW TO PLAY TABLE FOOTBALL IN STUDY HALL, WHAT FUN) AND THEN 30 YEARS LATER, MY SON NATHAN FOLLETTE CLASS OF 2002 HAD HIM FOR THREE YEARS AS HIS LGSH FOOTBALL COACH AND MY YOUNGER SON BILLY FOLLETTE-OKEEFE WAS THE LGHS FOOTBALL WATER BOY DURING THAT TIME. COACH WAS SUCH HUGE IMPACT IN OUR LIFES HE BROUGHT US CLOSER TO GOD AND INSPIRED NATHAN IN SO MANY WAYS IN LIFE AND OUT ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD I CAN REMEMBER CHARLIE TALKING WITH NATHAN, HE ALWAYS TOOK THE TIME FOR EACH PLAYER AND PARENT. CHARLIE COULD PUT A SMILE ON YOUR FACE AND IN YOUR HEART WHEN YOU NEEDED ONE, HE ALWAYS PUT OTHERS FIRST. CHARLIE WAS A MAN OF GODLY INTEGERITY AND WITH HIS WIFE LUCY BESIDE HIM THEY WERE AN AWSUME TEAM.
WE LOVE YOU CHARLIE AND LUCY,
APRIL FOLLETTE AND SONS
CHARLIE YOU WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BUT THE WONDERFUL MEMOREIES OF YOU WILL GO ON!!!
June 5, 2010
EVERYONE WILL CERTAINLY MISS A COURAGEOUS MAN. A TRUE WINNER.
HE NEVER GAVE UP. HE WAS STRONG
GOD BLESS HIM.
WE WILL LIGHT A CANDLE AT CHURCH.
CHARLES & PHYLLIS
June 5, 2010
Our son Sam Bowers was starting JV quarterback for Coach Wedemeyer in 2007. The team was undefeated that year. Sam was named Offensive Player of the year. The biggest reward, however, was the experience he had working with Charlie. He learned so much more than football that season.
It's safe to say lessons he learned from Charlie will stay with him for the rest of his life.
Rest in Peace Coach, and to Lucy we wish you strength and serenity.
Craig, Kim, Sam and Hannah Bowers
Mike Carroll
June 5, 2010
We came to SJ in 1983 and it wasnt long that we heard about Charlie and his life and struggles but what a special person and character. He was truly one in a million, to live and love and just stare back in the face of ALS was amazing. I am sorry to never have met him but have been so affected by his life and way he lived it. Also his family that stood by him him to make things work the way he wanted, that is a very special love as well. He will always be remembered as a truly a special man, coach and father!!
Jon Kidd LGHS '83
June 4, 2010
As a LGHS alum graduating in 1983, I was a part of the class that saw firsthand the struggles Coach Wedemeyer was starting to have. As freshmen we were shooting hoops with Coach in pickup games. As seniors we made it our privilege to stop by his golf cart to say "hi" and catch his eyes dancing and that amazing smile he had. He wouldn't never let ALS take those things away from him. I caught a LGHS football game in 2008 for the first time since graduating and I was so happy to see Charlie sitting in his tricked out van in the endzone studying the action. All I can say is "Thank You Coach!" To Lucy and the kids, thank you for taking such good care of Charlie. God Bless You All.
Good game Coach Wedemeyer... you won!
Melody Fonda
June 4, 2010
Lucy, the first thing I thought of when I heard that Charlie had passed away was that he was up and out of his chair and being greeted by so many that were ready for him in heaven. He's not bound any longer by all those machines. He is free! I am sure that my dad corraled him and took him over to the piano near my mom so that Charlie could belt out some worship songs! My dad was either singing or playing his trumpet to accompany him! We will all miss him so much. Love to you, Carrie and Kale ~ and praying for you.
Len Wolford
June 4, 2010
I had the privilege to know Charlie and Lucy through Los Gatos Football. Coach taught us football and about life. You and your family get an A++++… for teaching us about life. Coach will be missed and never forgotten. My prayers and condolences go out to Lucy and the Wedemeyer family.
Mark Sasao & family
June 4, 2010
Charlie,
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your life. Your inspiration will live on long after this day. Though I've only known you as an ALS survivor, I cherish the short time we spent with you and your family. Our thoughts are with your family - Lucy, Kale, Carrie, and families.
Mike Tomasello
June 4, 2010
To the Wedemeyer Family
You have show us all the true meaning of God's Family
Thank You
The Tomasello Family
Bob Fitzsimmons
June 4, 2010
A man after God's own heart: Charlie, my guess is you've just organized a football game in heaven, and you can sprint and leap and fly even better than you could on earth. May God's graces be with you and your family.
John Kolsrud
June 4, 2010
Dear Wedemeyer family, I remember Charlie playing football in the Big Ten. He produced not only great players, but great coaches at Los Gatos HS. Charlie and Lucy have been an inspiration to me for their dedication to our youth and to family. I wish the family well in these tough times.
Tracy Mesa
June 4, 2010
I had the privilage of cheering along with Coach Wedemeyer in our undefeated football season in 1976. I knew then how lucky to have known him. He made us all feel special. I admire Lucy and the rest of the family showing us all the meaning of love. What an incredible example of learning to love life.
Love, Tracy (Baker) Mesa
Greg Glatz
June 4, 2010
Charlie Wedemeyer was a great football player and a greater man. To say that he and his family are inspirational seems somehow inadequate for how truly exceptional their lives have been.
Today there are a lot of fond remembrances and sorrowful eyes in East Lansing. My most sincere condolences to the family of a great Spartan.
Eric Humphriss
June 4, 2010
I first met Charlie in 1977, I was new to Los Gatos High and he was my karate instructor. I remember that first day with him in gym class like it was yesterday. He was teaching us how to center our energy and demonstrated this by centering himself in a solid stance and then invited us to run at him to try and dislodge him. We all bounced off of him like he was an oak tree. Charlie inspired me and I'm glad to have known him. I have continued to be inspired watching from a distance his amazing positive influence on the world. He will be missed!
June 4, 2010
Charlie,
You represent what is best in the world.
Thank you,
Eric and Alice Hansen
June 4, 2010
You cannot help but be awe inspired by the life of both Charlie and Lucy. We knew them as neighbors and friends. Our children were the same ages. An incredible and beautiful family. They showed such courage in fighting ALS. He loved and served and the Lord--he was a blessing and will be blessed. For you, Lucy, Carrie and Kale--you will be in our prayers. The loss is so great . . . Our love, El and Jeri Estruth
June 4, 2010
He will be greatly missed and remembered; he mentored many.
Mrs. Sharon Brunner Turzo (Los Gatos, CA)
Jeanie Watson
June 4, 2010
I remember Charlie and his wife because they would come out to meet Kale on the LGHS football field during half time, while I was cheering as a spirit squad member. He is always part of my memories when I think back on those games back in the late 1980s. Rest in Peace, Charlie Wedemeyer.
Richard Overhauser
June 4, 2010
To know Coach was to love him, I am so thankfull to have known him, for I would not be the man I am today if not for him and his wife Lucy.When I think of the Wedemeyers I think of Love & Faith. Go Bless you.
LGHS 1982
Andrea Zarate-Mccoy
June 4, 2010
You are a tresure and shall not be not be forgotten by humans here on eartn. Your tremendous faith in God and love for many has served as a lesson for many of us. May god be with you and your family.
Andrea Zarate-McCoy, M.Ed.
Mark Wander
June 4, 2010
As a 25 year Los Gatos resident and Michigan State Alum, Charlie has been an inspiration to me on many levels for decades. With my twins entering Los Gatos High next fall in the football program, I am proud that his legacy remains in the successful program he helped build. He will be missed, but lives on in every player he has molded and in the memories we all have of his life. Our condolences go out to Lucy and family. Go Green, and Go Cats!
MSU '81,
Mali Dahl
June 4, 2010
I was at that Giants game and I stood, cheering and clapping as hard as I could. As they took him off the field, I still cheered and clapped. One of those surreal moments - time stood still for a few seconds. Our eyes met and he winked at me as if he understood that I was honoring him not as a baseball fan but as someone who saw him as a true life hero. I have followed his life since I first heard about him. While his passing is not a surprise, I am still heartbroken and crying. I lack the words to express the depth of my sorrow. How much greater it is for his family! They are in my thoughts and prayers. I will never forget that frozen moment in time and will carry his inspiration in my heart forever. Aloha nui loa
Sean Rector
June 4, 2010
My family's prayers and condolences go out to the Wedemeyer family on losing your wonderful husband and father.
I graduated from Los Gatos High School in 1987 and was honored to watch Charlie coach our teams to victory after victory, including the CCS Championship. I will never forget the respect shown by the players as they all took a knee, before each game, around Charlie's golf cart to listen to his instructions. His was a truly inspirational life.
Aloha Coach!
Ralph Gora
June 4, 2010
Aloha Charlie,
Ralph Gora, St. Louis College, Honolulu, Hi, class of '49
I was on the field broadcasting one of your games . Pat McGinnis, coordinated the activities.
Your brother, Herman "Hula-Hip"Wedemeyer played at St. Louis College, as you know.
I'll be at your "Aloha Gathering".
You and Lucy have been an inspiration to all.
Aloha,
Ralph Gora and wife Patricia
Bryan Yoshida
June 4, 2010
Charlie, you will always be our "native son" to us in Los Gatos. This is a tremendous loss but you've got your freedom now in a better place. You are missed...
Michael Kincade
June 4, 2010
I first became aware of Charlie in 1963 when I was a student at Radford High School in Honolulu. Charlie was the star quarterback at Punahou High School. He then went on to Michigan State with Bob Apisa, brother of my good friend Rudy (Bob, who became an actor, played the Kahuna in the movie about Charlie's life). After following his career at MSU, I lost track of Charlie until one day my wife and I were looking at homes in Los Gatos, and I saw the Agent's name was Lucy Wedemeyer. I then learned about Charlie who was head coach at LGHS. In the years since, I have tried to continue to follow Charlie's progress and have always used his courageous fight against ALS as motivation for myself, my sons, and anyone whom I have encountered who were battling issues in their lives. God Bless Charlie's family as they deal with losing this incredible human being. As gifted an athlete as Charlie was, God made him an even more gifted human being. I am certain that hundreds of people have benefited from his story, and for all the Wedemeyer's, thank you so much for sharing Charlie's courage, resilience, and faith, as well as the same each of you have exhibited in assisting Charlie during his heroic battle. You all embody the true meaning of Aloha. He will be greatly missed, but his work and his story will carry on. May God Bless each of you.
Kay Weeks
June 4, 2010
I met Charlie and his family when Erwin, my significant other, was his roommate at Kaiser Santa Teresa in May of 2008. Erwin was also on a ventilator and sadly he died in Nov of 2008. I have thought often about Charlie and his family since then with warm memories of how wonderful and supportive they all were. No matter how bad the day was, when I walked into the hospital room and Charlie gave me his huge smile, it always made my day more hopeful and brighter. My heart goes out to his wonderful family and all his friends. I felt very honored that I was able to meet such a great man.
Lauren Lipton
June 4, 2010
I was a J.V. lettergirl in 1980-81 and never personally met Coach Wedemeyer but always wanted to. The players' affection and admiration was palpable every time he came onto the field. I thought, anyone so loved must be a wonderful human being.
jennifer yancey
June 4, 2010
He will be dearly missed. When I met charlie I was just a little girl.We meet at a church in tara hills,ca. Meeting him was the best thing ever. He teaches myself and everyone he meets that anything is possable.
love you charlie , and I love you too lucy. god bless you
Jennifer yancey
Robet Skuse
June 4, 2010
Lucy,
I admire your courage. With Charlie's determination, you both have been an inspiration to many.
My heart is with you and your family.
Georganne Reese
June 4, 2010
I remember meeting Charlie and Lucy at Tara Hills Alliance Church when my girls were younger. When we went out to eat, my oldest daughter, Jennifer, wanted to go home with Charlie. He agreed she could come home with them but would have some chores to do. As much as she loved Charlie, she decided she'd stay home! Much love to your family, Lucy. God certainly had a mission for Charlie and he made a wonderfully, positive impact on our family as he did on many others. God bless you and give you peace and strength through this time.
Steve Rice
June 4, 2010
Charlie and Lucy have done much for LGHS and Los Gatos. From the football field to motivational speeches to the examples of courage and class that they lived every day, I marvel at how they lived their personal struggle in public. My condolences to the Wedemyer family.
Spencer Boyer
June 4, 2010
Wedemeyer Family,
Please accept my condolences and prayers. Coach Wedemeyer left the world a better place. All who knew him were provided the inspiration and courage to face any adversity. Heaven's high school varsity team will now be blessed with Coaches' homemade cookies after Thursday practice. God Bless You.
Spencer Boyer #67 LGHS 1985 WVAL and CCS Champions
Kim (Anderson) Short
June 4, 2010
In 1981, we dedicated our yearbook to Coach Wedemeyer - that's how much he meant to us. I was a cheerleader, and we always brought Coach Wedemeyer a pineapple during football double days in the summer. He always smiled when he saw us coming across the field! He was a great leader and made everyone around him feel like what they were doing mattered.
Thank you for your presence, your support of Los Gatos High School players, students and community, and the wonderful memories.
B. Barrans
June 4, 2010
I remember watching this movie with my dad, Mr. Barrans, when it first came out. For my dad to have respected Coach Wedemeyer the way he did, we knew he had to be someone special. Such an inspirational life. God bless you and your family as you make your journey home.
Scott Burns
June 4, 2010
Charlie,
You were a great man who taught us how to overcome any obstacle. You built a legacy that will be forever remembered. Rest in Peace and God Bless Lucy and your family.
Denise Hughes
June 4, 2010
To the Wedermeyer family: Charlie was and is an inspiration to all who met and knew him. I ued to see him come in to Lunardis with his beautiful wife Lucy shopping, talking to the customers through Lucy and expressing such joy through his eyes which lit up when he encountered everyone. He will be truly missed through-out the community and my condolences go out to his family at this sad time.
Linda Schultz
June 4, 2010
Lucy and family,
What an incredible life YOU ALL gave Charlie these many years. I know it was only your unconditional, tireless love and God's unlimited grace that kept Charlie with us. I will always remember the impact that your book "Charlie's Victory" had on me and the many people I gave a copy to that were going through hard times. Your 'victory' was in Christ and you were all the first to give Him the glory! Knowing now that Charlie is finally free of his body and is throwing a football with Jesus....just makes me smile ;0).... Your faith and your awesome example of agape has always and will always continue to inspire me. May you have God's perfect peace in your transition. Charlie leaves a BIG empty space in this world may your many wonderful memories feed your soul and Spirit. God bless you! With much love and prayers...
Mary O'Brien
June 4, 2010
My son played football for Los Gatos High School for only one year but I will never forget the freshman football team rising as one at the end-of-season banquet to give a standing ovation to their coach, Charlie Wedemeyer. I believe he touched the heart of everyone of those boys. He certainly did my son.
Kevin Reeves
June 4, 2010
Charlie,
It was a pleasure to coach and learn with you for the last 10 years. Thanks for being out there and touching the lives of not only the kids but the coaches as well.
felicia thompson
June 4, 2010
charlie was such an inspiration! i loved the movie Quiet Victory! i also have the book.my daughter and i have been moved by his life. he has certainly lived life to the fullest! May the Lord be with this family during this difficult time. we love you!
Linda McIntyre
June 4, 2010
Charley, you were always an inspiration to me and my heart sank when I saw your name this morning. God's speed to you as you join the football league in heaven. Your family has such strength and I know you will be proud of how they carry on. God Bless
Rob Comeau
June 4, 2010
Thanks to the Wedemeyer Family for leading by example, as a player if you did not do it right, Charlie would show you how, as a coach showing leadership, for Lucy and Charlie how to raise a family and to the Wedemeyer family, how to provide a loving support strucuture.
God Bless,
Eddy Szyjewicz
June 4, 2010
To quote Brent Jones, "Charlie Wedemeyer was the funniest person I never heard." Inspirational and courageous are not strong enough words, and that goes for the entire family. I'll miss Charlie and his chili.
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