Charles Sage

Charles Sage passed away peacefully Monday, April 21, 2025, at age 90.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa, May 27 at 1 p.m.

A real Jersey boy, Charles grew up in Belleville, NJ, and graduated from Montclair Academy. He attended Lehigh University, but before graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Marines where he served with distinction and was honorably discharged as a corporal. He continued his education at Farleigh Dickinson University and Stevens Institute of Technology while working at Western Electric.

One of the oldest slogans of the Marines is "A Few Good Men," and Charles was certainly one of them. "Charlie" could build and fix just about anything around the house and in the driveway. He was also an avid sailor, made craft beer and ran more than 20 marathons. He loved New York jazz clubs, symphony music and all kinds of sports. He was always fun to be around.

Charles learned computers and worked with them before anyone ever thought about a lap-top or cell phone. He moved to Ames, Iowa, to join the first computer group at the Ames Lab, developing an early information system. At Iowa State University he was a pioneer in search technology and made significant contributions to the research and computer center, spearheading the transition of the library to an electronic data base - a pioneering achievement.

In 1960, Charles married Priscilla Kepner. For most of their married life, they lived in a Century home on Welch Avenue, the heart of Campustown in Ames where they raised their two children, Abigail and Andrew. Charles walked to the campus every morning, through sunshine, rain, sleet and snow. Priscilla, a fiber artist, had her studio in their home. Charles was a wonderful support to his wife's work (literally!), helping with many of her installations.

A life-long Democrat and Iowa caucus chair, "Charlie" was an early and vocal advocate for civil rights and fair housing. He served on the Ames Human Relations Board and continued past retirement with his support of liberal and humane causes.

Charles and Priscilla cherished their time at their Kabekona Lake home in Laporte, where Charles sailed and planted trees, and Priscilla made art and gardened. This was a central gathering place for friends and family every summer. And, as Priscilla noted, "We laughed together every single day."

Charles is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Priscilla; children Abigail (Rüdiger Lange) Sage and Andrew (Jill) Sage; and many dear relatives.

In memory of Charles, contribution can be made to the Kabekona Lake Foundation, P.O. Box 8. Laporte, MN 56461-0008.