Charles Abraham Hessenthaler

Charles Abraham Hessenthaler, a dedicated and hardworking farmer, a loving family man, and a devout follower of his faith, suddenly yet peacefully passed away on June 11, 2023, at the Billings Clinic in Billings, MT. He was surrounded by his beloved family, having reached the age of 75.
Born on September 6th, 1947, in the town of Powell, WY Charles was raised in the embrace of the Big Horn Basin by his parents, Norma and Charlie Hessenthaler. It was his father who introduced him to the intricate world of farming, instilling in him a deep passion for the land and the rewards it bore.
As the eldest brother to Jack, Ruth, Paul, and Kent, Charles embraced the responsibility of being a guiding presence in their lives. His leadership extended beyond his siblings, as he forged a beautiful and loving family of his own. Charles was a devoted husband to Amy for 55 years, and together they raised six remarkable children: Heather, Cherelle, Brandon, Natalie, David, and Carson. He cherished his role as a father and took pride in the achievements of his kids and 19 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He loved to support them at the games and events.
Charles holds a strong legacy in the Big Horn Basin for his outstanding athletic performances as a Byron Eagle in high school. He led his team as quarterback to three consecutive football state championships his sophomore, junior, and senior year. He also excelled in track and held a state hurdling record for many decades. If he was not cheering on the Lovell Bulldogs he was watching sports at home. He took great pride in watching his children and grandchildren play and celebrated their accomplishments.
Charles possessed four great loves in his life, each defining the essence of who he was. First and foremost was his unwavering devotion to his family. The bonds he cultivated and the values he instilled in his children will resonate for generations to come. His love and dedication were the foundation upon which his family flourished.
The second great love of his life was his faith. Charles was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, deeply committed to his beliefs and serving those around him. He served as Byron Ward Bishop and held numerous church callings. His voice, resonant and strong, would often join the chorus of hymns, expressing his love for the Savior. His unwavering commitment to his faith and the principles it encompassed shone through his example.
Farming held the third great love in Charles' heart. In 1972, he and Amy purchased the Snell Farm, and over the course of 50 years, they grew and transformed it into thousands of acres of fertile land. Side by side with his sons Brandon, David, and Carson, Charles imparted his vast knowledge and innovation, ensuring a seamless transition to the next generation. His dedication and passion for farming were evident in the bountiful harvests reaped from his toil. Charles was not only a farmer but also a teacher, passing down his expertise and fostering a deep appreciation for the land in his family.
Above all, Charles cherished his lifelong partner, Amy. Their enduring love and friendship were an inspiration to all who knew them. Together, they weathered life's challenges and celebrated its triumphs, forging a bond that grew stronger with each passing year. Charles found solace and unwavering support in Amy, and their union exemplified the true meaning of companionship.
Charles Abraham Hessenthaler was a man of unwavering strength, resilience, and unmatched work ethic. His impact extended far beyond the borders of his family, reaching into the tight-knit community of the Big Horn Basin. His loss is deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to know him, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill.
In honoring his memory, let us remember Charles for the values he embodied - the love he had for his family, the steadfastness of his faith, and the unwavering dedication he displayed in his work. As we bid farewell to this brave and remarkable man, may we carry his legacy in our hearts and continue to nurture the seeds of love, resilience, and hard work that he planted.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents Norma and Charlie Hessenthaler. He is survived by his wife, Amy Hessenthaler; his children Heather (Steve) Sessions, Cherelle (Jared) Nicholls, Brandon (Serena) Hessenthaler, Natalie (Kieley) Collins, David (Jennifer) Hessenthaler, and Carson (Nicole) Hessenthaler. He is survived by 19 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. His siblings; Jack (Sydney) Hessenthaler, Ruth (Jim) Lorhenz, Paul (Erin) Hessenthaler, and Kent (Stacy) Hessenthaler.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 21st at 2:00 PM at the Byron LDS Church. All are invited to honor and celebrate the life of Charles.
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