Charlie Watson

Charlie Watson was the proud father to three amazing kids. He is survived by Charlie, Grace, and Audrey and was loved by Sarah. His adoring parents, Chuck and Kim Watson, were brightened by his light for 44 years along with his grandmother Anna Marie Parrilli, his Aunt Sandy, Aunt Cindy and Uncle Joe, and cousins JoeJoe and Gina. He was enveloped into the
family by his in-laws Terry and Roseanne along with Nicole and Rudy, Vince and Dana, many loving nieces and nephews, extended aunts, uncles, and cousins. He will be missed by lifelong friends that are like family. Charlie was preceded in death by his beloved sister Melissa and his grandfather Kenneth Parrilli; we pray he is happy and whole in their warm embrace.
Though his kids were his greatest contribution to this world, he was a proud carpenter, woodworker, and most recently teacher. Whether he was a friend, a coach, a co-worker, or a friendly social acquaintance to you his presence was felt. Charlie was extreme in nature- he loved big and fought hard. He could control the mood of a room with his vibrant personality and was loved by so many people. His ability to turn a piece of wood into functional art was impressive and second only to his ability to relate to others in their time of need.
Charlie loved to help others; he spent 5 years volunteering with the Merrillville Fire Department, 10 years coaching baseball, and the last two years teaching carpentry at the Porter County Career Center. His years as a volunteer fireman were some of his favorites and he was honored to have helped in the 9-11 recovery with fellow firefighters.
He was both humbled and bolstered by the interactions he had with his students and proud to have been recognized as a favorite mentor by a few. Charlie loved the outdoors, music, good food, and long drives on a sunny day. He shared those interests with his three favorite people in the world- his cool kids. He loved watching them thrive in their sports and activities, loved sharing playlists, and just talking or joking and living life to the fullest. He'd always tell them to try new things- it could be your favorite- and to be true to themselves and their dreams.
Charlie was a passionate, outgoing, fun-loving, adventurous spirit who worked so hard to feel at peace in this world; may he have eternal peace and rest feeling how loved he truly was.
Friends may greet the family on Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 3 pm until 8 pm. Funeral Service will take place at 6 pm, Pastor Dave Weemhoff, officiating.