Dr. Charles Howard Flatter

Dr. Charles Flatter Obituary
Dr. Charles Howard Flatter, a beacon of wisdom and compassion, passed away on July 6, 2024, at the age of 85, due to heart disease. Born on May 13, 1939, in Fairborn, Ohio, Charles grew to become a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a distinguished member of the academic community. He departed this life in Ellicott City, Maryland, leaving behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and unwavering dedication to his family and work.
Charles's life was one of profound partnership and familial love. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 59 years, Janice Flatter, who walked side by side with him through life's many journeys. Together, they raised a family that includes their son, Chris Flatter; daughter-in-law Cindy Dwyer; daughter, Julie Flatter; daughter Jennie Cox, and son-in-law Joseph Cox. His wisdom and joy live on through his six grandchildren, Melanie Maier (Karl Maier), Brian Flatter (Addie Storr), and the Ornelas siblings-Joseph, Jillian, Joshua, and Jacob Cox. His extended family includes his cherished sister-in-law, Mary Lou Flatter. Charles was preceded in death by his sister Marilyn Mulling, brother-in-law Art Mulling, and his brother, Dr. John Flatter.
An alumnus of DePauw University, Charles continued his education at the University of Toledo, earning a master's degree in Guidance and Counseling, and later achieved his PhD in Human Development and Child Study from the University of Maryland. His academic journey was a testament to his belief in the power of education, not just as a career but as a life mission.
For over four decades, Dr. Charles H. Flatter served the University of Maryland College Park as a Professor and later the Chair of the Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology. He guided scholars towards their doctoral degrees, authored more than six influential books, numerous manuals, and magazine articles, and was a steady voice in a magazine column dedicated to parents. His work in drug education and prevention culminated in the creation of the Drug Prevention Curriculum Model for the United States Department of Education. His contributions to over 60 PBS television shows demonstrated his commitment to disseminating knowledge far and wide.
In retirement, Charles channeled his passion for education into philanthropy, the Campaign Cabinet for the University of Maryland's billion-dollar fundraising effort. His dedication to his field never wavered, and his influence continues to ripple through the academic and philanthropic communities.
Charles's interests were as profound as his career, focusing on parenting, fathering, and researching various facets of human development such as attachment, leadership, and family support. He was an avid traveler and puzzle enthusiast, always seeking new challenges and experiences.
Described as loving, intelligent, and passionate, Charles approached life with the same fervor he devoted to his research and teaching. His personal philosophy echoed the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the remarkable legacy he leaves behind-a legacy that will continue to inspire and shape generations to come.