Charles Arthur Doswell

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Charles A. Doswell III, who peacefully left this world on January 18, 2025, at the age of 79. Charles was born on November 5, 1945, in Elmhurst, Illinois, to Charles Arthur Doswell Jr. and Anna Marie Anderson.
A devoted husband, Charles married Vickie Arlene Teel in 1975, and together they built a loving family. He was the proud father of two children, Charles Arthur Doswell IV (spouse Candice) and Heather Lynne Doswell Graff (spouse Michael). As a doting grandfather, he cherished his four grandchildren and found joy in his four beloved granddogs.
Charles spent much of his professional life at the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL), where he retired in 2001. He made monumental contributions to severe storms meteorology, including the development of modern conceptualizations of supercell thunderstorms and advancements in forecasting methodologies. Charles co-authored seminal works, including over 100 peer-reviewed publications, and was instrumental in the success of groundbreaking projects like the VORTEX field campaign. His legacy in meteorology is further enshrined as the editor of the American Meteorological Society monograph Severe Convective Storms.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, Charles embraced a rich and fulfilling life. His hobbies included gardening, storm chasing, and taking long, reflective walks. He also found joy in supporting Boy Scouts, where his passion for nature and community shone. A talented photographer, Charles captured the beauty and ferocity of storms through his lens, combining his scientific insight with artistic expression. He was also an avid blues fan, sharing his love of music through internet radio shows such as Juke Joint and High Instability.
Charles was recognized for his contributions with numerous accolades, including the AMS Editor's Award in 1994 and the Sergey Soloviev Medal from the European Geosciences Union in 2004. However, he remained humble, always dedicated to mentoring others and advancing the field of meteorology
Dr. Charles A. Doswell III will be remembered for his brilliant mind, kind heart, and unwavering dedication to both his family and his work. His legacy will endure in the countless lives he touched, the family he adored, the meteorological advancements he pioneered, and the causes he held dear. His passion for animal rescue, sparked by his beloved granddogs, was a testament to his boundless capacity for love and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Norman Animal Welfare in honor of Charles' commitment to animal rescue and welfare.
A memorial service will be held on February 22nd at the National Weather Center in Norman, Oklahoma to celebrate his remarkable life and enduring legacy