Charles Pitcher

1930 - 2024

On Tuesday, August 13th, Charles M. Pitcher left this world for his eternal one at the age of 94. Born into 1930's New Orleans, he was a 1st-hand participant in many key moments of the last century, from struggling through the Great Depression & war years, to going off to fight in Korea, only to come home to be introduced to a population of household televisions. Charlie spent his early years growing up in his beloved Irish Channel, where he & his tight-knit family struggled through the poverty of the great depression, while fighting to attain the American Dream. Although poor, his family managed to provide him the ability to attend St. Theresa and Holy Cross Schools. Like many, Uncle Sam came knocking and he was sent off to fight, where he was nominated for the silver star, yet his concrete integrity kept him too humble to accept it, as he felt his friends that died were the true heroes. Upon returning home from Korea, Charlie quickly adjusted into his normal Irish Channel routines of hanging with family and friends over a cold beer. He remained well known in his neighborhood and all around the city, which never ended to this day. He even helped raise & mentor many of his nieces & nephews during this time, especially his beloved niece Laura Weigel and her brother Albert Kennedy. In 1960, he met the love of his life & best friend, his wife Kleo "Mary" Tonglet. The two were married in 1967 at Sacred Heart Church, on Canal Street, where Mary went to school. Shortly after the wedding Charlie was introduced to his other love & apple of his eye, his son Floyd J. Pitcher who was born August 1968. Now a father, his focus narrowed to establishing a good career to support his young family, and in true "Charlie Pitcher" fashion he accomplished his goal by excelling to a career as a Computer Operator for Pan American Life. As the family grew so did the traditions, whether following his beloved LSU Tigers, listening to his music, attending St. Patrick's Day in the Channel, or just the weekly hangouts with friends or family. During these years Charlie's true talents were revealed, as he regularly shared his wisdom and taught important life lessons to his son and closest nephews. He taught them all to hold proud to what you believe, to play to win, and stand your ground when needed, yet he always insisted that you welcome all good people with a positive disposition. As the years passed, Charlie spent most of his time with his wife, Mary, or with his family members at various functions. He remained a tough cookie that only age could beat. As he aged, he continued to spread love & laughter to all he held close, until his heavenly commander gave him his final orders to come home. As a devout Catholic, everyone knows he accomplished that mission in the same determined manner he accomplished so many things in his life here on earth. He was a 'GREAT' man, a lasting reminder of the "Greatest Generation", and there's no doubt that he will be missed by many. We have lost the best of the best! Charlie is survived by his wife Kleo "Mary" Pitcher and son, Floyd Pitcher. Additionally, he will be missed dearly by his nieces & nephews, and endless group of close friends. Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 23rd, at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans. Friends may pay their respects from 11am – 1pm, with a funeral Mass and burial to follow.