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Charlie Wilson Obituary
Wilson died at Memorial Medical Center-Lufkin after he started having difficulty breathing while attending a meeting in the eastern Texas town where he lived, said hospital spokeswoman Yana Ogletree. Wilson was pronounced dead on arrival, and the preliminary cause of death was cardiopulmonary arrest, she said.
Wilson represented the 2nd district in east Texas in the U.S. House from 1973 to 1996 and was known in Washington as "Good Time Charlie" for his reputation as a hard-drinking womanizer.
Actor Tom Hanks portrayed Wilson in the 2007 movie about Wilson's efforts to arm Afghani mujahedeen during Afghanistan's war against the Soviet Union in the 1980s. Wilson, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, helped secure money for weapons.
In 2007, Wilson had a heart transplant at a Houston hospital. Doctors had told Wilson, who suffered from cardiomyopathy, a disease that causes an enlarged and weakened heart, that he would likely die without a transplant.
"Charlie was perfect as a congressman, perfect as a state representative, perfect as a state senator. He was a perfect reflection of the people he represented. If there was anything wrong with Charlie, I never did know what it was," said Charles Schnabel Jr., who served for seven years as Wilson's chief of staff in Washington and worked with Wilson when he served in the Texas Senate.
Schnabel said he had just been with Wilson a few weeks ago for the dedication of the Charlie Wilson chair for Pakistan studies at the University of Texas, Austin, a $1 million endowment. He said Wilson had been doing "very good."
"He had the heart transplant in September 2007 and he recovered and he said quote, 'he was a poster boy for heart transplants. ' He was doing very well. He was taken a whole lot of medicine," Schnabel said.
Ogletree said Wilson is survived by his wife and a sister.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
Memories and Condolences
for Charlie Wilson
219 Entries
Harry Simpson
February 10, 2019
Fair winds and following seas sailor.
"Boatswain... Standby to pipe the side... Shipmate's going Ashore..."
Thank you for your service to this nation.
Frank Leutenegger
April 23, 2011
No condolence, but homage to a true man. I was there once and seen the war in Afghanistan. Thank you Charlie Wilson.
Rodney Smith
October 3, 2010
Charlie,You will never be forgotten in The Smith home.You will always remeber for what you did,for all of the people of the piney woods of Deep East Tx.Thank you Charlie!You Will always be my Hero...
Tim Jones
July 25, 2010
I will never forget sitting close to Charlie Wilson during a speech he gave in Lufkin about the Panama Canal I felt very privileged to be there. A year later I gave a speech at a Rotary club in East Texas as the president introduced me he said Charlie Wilson gave a speach here last week thought you would like to know that.You can guess how I felt. I am very proud to have met Charlie Wilson
July 21, 2010
Feels like someone just cut down my favorite large,old,and beautiful shade tree.
Rebecca Sparks
Owensboro, KY
March 7, 2010
For Charlie...
A class guy.
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Rodney Smith
February 24, 2010
You will miss,farwell my dear friend!
Mark Roach
February 23, 2010
Thank you sir, for being a great patriot and american hero. So many are inspired by your dedication and iron will resolve to not only be a part of history but more importantly, to change it! God bless, Mark Roach Llano, Tx USNR
Jack Flynn
February 21, 2010
Charlie you were a great pal. You were a man of and for the people. You loved this country with all the passion you brought to your own life.
Rest in peace and we will never forget you.
Jack Flynn
Carole S Stinson
February 18, 2010
Well Charlie,
You beat me again, Your meeting our Blessed Savior before me. wrapped in his arms, and looking down with your big grin, saying I'm still with you all.
I've read all of what the wonderful people have said about you ,AND they are all right on the MONEY !
So I just wanted to say, You always Listen , even if the opinions weren't as you saw it , on whatever the topic at that time was. Then YOU did what was best for all and I mean All concern, America and your beloved "East Texas ".
Walking the hall's of the court house, the federal building and the streets YOU traveled on, Calling your office ,Needing information, Just saying Carole Sue , and if you were there , coming to the phone , If not you always returned my calls, as you did for all who needed you.
We loved following all Political races and who would win. I will miss butting heads with you on certain things, My Dear Friend.
To your Wonderful family , My heart felt prayers, Our Lord to keep them in his hands, with the hurt and lost of their precious Charlie.
Carole Sue Stinson
Jane Powell
February 18, 2010
I had the opportunity to work for Charile Wilson in Washington, D.C., and I admired him so much. He did so much for the people in East Texas, Texas and the USA. He was my hero as well as so many others. I was also one of Charlie's Angels. He will be remembered for all the great things he did for so many people. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his wife, Barbara. I also attended Charlie's Memorial Service on Sunday, February 14, and it was amazing. Rest in peace, Charlie. Jane Powell, Houston
Jane Powell
February 18, 2010
I had the opportunity to work for Charlie Wilson in Washington, D.C. and I also attended his Memorial Service. Charlie did so much for the people of East Texas, Texas and USA. He was the hero to me and so many others. My thoughts and prayers and with his family and his wife, Barbara. Sincerely, Jane Powell, Houston
Sheila Kilcrease Ponder
February 16, 2010
Charlie Wilson was a man that not only loved the pineywoods of East Texas,but our great nation!Charlie was instumental in more than people know.Charlie came into my life some 34 years ago.I was a young Sabine County girl that had what I thought was only a dream of attending President Jimmy Carter's Inauguration.Charlie along with several others from Sabine and San Augustine counties made my dream come true. Charlie did not hesitate when he was contacted about me making the trip to D.C.!He was wonderful and the week there was a trip of a lifetime for anyone(especially a 13 yr.old).Charlie made sure that I had run of the office while I was there.He and his wonderful staff made sure that I was treated like royalty.I could never thank Charlie enough for all that he did for me and ourCountry.Mrs. Barbara,though I never had the pleasure of meeting you I know in my heart that you are a great and loving person. You were blessed to have such an extraordinary jewel--Charlie Wilson.I regret not contacting Charlie a few weeks ago.He was on my mind and I like most people got busy and did not follow through with my heart.I wanted him once again to know what an inspiration he was to me!I am in the political circle now and I acredit some of that to my dear friend Charlie.I may never go any further my current position,but I will give the position my all.The same way that Charlie did!Charlie Wilson rest in peace my wonderful friend.I pray that God will wrap his loving arms around you,Mrs. Barbara and give you the comfort that you need to get through this sorrowful time.
Jodi DiPane
February 16, 2010
I never met the man, but I can tell you his influence is greater than most - rest assured his legacy will live beyond his year. My deepest sympathy to his family.
February 16, 2010
Barbara and Sharon: Please know our prayers are with you at this time of such great loss. Charlie has been a friend of ours, having been in our wedding as a groomsman, and sharing days at the USNA. With special love,
Elizabeth and Worth Hobbs
Old Soldier
February 15, 2010
A man born to a great destiny. He changed the world. Rest in Peace good and faithful servant.
Laurie M
February 15, 2010
Never a greater humanitarian born. RIP, Congressman.
Lavie
February 15, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow. Take comfort in the words of Isaiah 25:8, 9
John Armstrong
February 15, 2010
I will miss Rep. Wilson, a great American. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends.
Sheri Ward
February 15, 2010
God bless Charlie Wilson
The kind of man I would like to have known. A caring American and a fun loving Texan.
My condolonces to the family.
February 14, 2010
Our Deepest Sympathy To Mrs Wilson and Family. We Know What It Is Like To Loose Someone So Close.
Mr.& Mrs. Grady Parker
Lufkin, Texas
February 14, 2010
Mr & Mrs Grady Parker
Lufkin, Texas
Don Stevenson
February 14, 2010
We will miss you, Charlie. You were really indeed bigger than life. I'll never forget the first time I met you. You gave an impromptu speech at the dedication of the Lake Livingston bridge in '69 when Sen. John Tower couldn't make it. The speech blew me away.
February 14, 2010
My deepest condolences are with you in your time of grief. May you continue to find comfort in the memories that you all shared together and get comfort from knowing one day Sickness will be no more and Death will be a thing of the past. In times of grief such as these, I find it comforting to meditate on the words found in the Holy Writings at Job 14:14, 15. Job expressed his faith that God would bring him back to life if he should fall asleep in death, "All the days of my compulsory service I shall wait, Until my relief comes. You will call, and I myself shall answer you." The scriptures indicate that it is possible to reunite with your loved one in the near future, right here on earth under peaceful, righteous conditions. Psalms 37:10, 11 offers us this promise. My sincere condolences to your entire family.
Lynette Gonzalez-NJ
Janelle Arnold Shimshi
February 13, 2010
CW...You gave me a chance, you showed me the world, you gave me my nickname and my eyes would not see what they see today, if you had not showed me the way. You are my hero. Thank you for paving the way to my wonderful life.. All of My Love, Janellie
kimberly patton
February 13, 2010
I am from Texas so I hope they layed him with his boots pointing to the east and his hat in his hand. Happy Trails Sir To You.
Bob Leight
February 13, 2010
Mr. Wilson certainly was an American hero. Our country would be in a much better position today if more politicians were like Charlie Wilson who was more interested in helping others and the country than in promoting himself. Thank You!
Bill Marshall
February 13, 2010
I worked for Charlie as his District Assistant in the Lufkin Office from 1973-1977. I had the pleasure of driving with Charlie across the district for five years. You learn many things from and about a person during these long drives. I will always remember these lessons. This education assisted me in my career. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to work with and for "Good Time Charlie". We worked hard and we played hard.
My deepest condolonces to Barbara, Sharon and the rest of Charlie's family. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
CHARLIE--CALM SEAS AND FOLLOWING WINDS
Later
Bill Marshall
Bob Massey
February 13, 2010
All of us who live in East Texas are better off because of him. Two things he accomplished stand out. 1. He brought electric power to East Texas and 2. Because of his beliefs he arranged military weapons for Afgan citizen soldiers. This resulted in defeat of the Russian invaders and, in my opinion, was the beginning of the end of the cold war. Reagan got the credit, but Charlie got the job done.
He cared about this great country and he cared about the citizens of it. We all honor you Charlie, and we were better off because we knew you. May God give you peace and rest.
George Singleton
February 12, 2010
May God grant Charlies family the heartfelt strength that Charley displayed in his daily walk. He was truely a man's man and you knew he didn't need flash to impress people. He did that through his many deed's.
Once while we were sharing a BBQ in Orange I asked him if he could get my son a flag that had flown at the capital so that I could give it to him when he returened home from his tour of duty in Germany. He said no problem in that confident voice and then instructed his aid to get the address to ship it to. The aid gave me a look when I gave him a Louisiana address, But! the flag was delivered the followiing Monday morning.
What He said he meant. Thanks Charley.
Amy Maccarone
February 12, 2010
Charlie Wilson was one of a kind. He would not let the world tell him who or what he should be. He was unflinchingly honest, independent, courageous and kind. I was honored to have worked for Charlie from 1986-1991. Charlie, you'll always have my fond thoughts and deepest respect.
Love to you,
Amy II
John Windham
February 12, 2010
One of the really great statemen of our times, Charlie cared for the ordinary person in his district and always worked for the betterment of East Texas and The United States of America. He was a true statesman.
Be a peace now with our Lord.
Teresa Sadorus
February 12, 2010
Good JOB Congressman! God bless you! Condolences to the family.
E Bruschuk
February 12, 2010
Thanks for helping the Afgans Charlie. Rest in Peace. Prayers to the family.
E Bruschuk
February 12, 2010
I knew him briefley. Thanks for helping the Afghans Charlie. Rest in Peace.
Becky Robins
February 12, 2010
I have signed letters from Charlie that he wrote me , while trying to help me collect Social Security, when my husband died in a plane crash. I was so proud when the movie was made about him..I have 2 copies., and I told every one , "I have autographed letters from him'. I love you, Charlie.
lyndon boozer
February 12, 2010
Charlie Wilson didn't just talk the talk, he walked the walk. We miss you Congressman! As an intern for Congressman J.J. Pickle, I'll never forget the first impression you made on me. It feels like yesterday. And to this day, your family should be proud not only of your public service but that you did it your way. Rest in Peace.
Ron Strybos
February 12, 2010
I remember Charlie Wilson form when I was in high school in Jasper back in the 1970's. I had several of my friends that wanted to go to the military academies. My dad worked for the Boy Scouts and he got a hold of Charlie. Charlie got appointments for every one of those guys telling us most reps didn't use there 2 appointments. Heck, Charlie used his 2 and several more. We could sure use more men like Charlie now. Thank you for everything that you have done for Texas.
Agnes Bundy Scanlan
February 12, 2010
Charlie, you remain the best boss I've ever had! I fondly inform each subsequent boss that they have big shoes to fill. To me, you were also an educator, a mentor and a friend. To the people of Lufkin, you provided unwavering support and resources. To our country, you were a true patriot. I am so lucky to have worked for you and to have known you. John, Sophia and I extend our deepest condolences to Barbara (to whom you were devoted) and to Sharon (your treasured sister). Many thanks for providing terrific support, guidance and great memories over the years.
Jerri Blackwell Crain-Seibert
February 12, 2010
Charlie...
You were part of the little group of people in Lufkin that I remember as a positive part of my childhood...my parents, Kenneth and Doris Crain, C.A. and Billie Smith, the Tatums, John and Susan Hannah, Claude Welch...all loyal democrats, dedicated to the cause of helping the underdog. We were proud through the years that you carried that message outside of East Texas, to Washington and the world.
We were so happy that you got to see your movie...now the whole world knows of the good that you accomplished.
Your wife is in our thoughts and prayers...I know that she literally changed your life.
You made the world a better place and we'll miss you.
Susan Franzheim
February 12, 2010
Charlie's insider-knowledge of Pakistan and Islam...was very helpful to my husband, Kenneth Franzheim and me in the 1970s when KFII was asked to be the honorary consul for Morocco in Houston. As the Arab-mind is vastly different from the Western-mind...it would have been easy to make avoidable mistakes just by doing and saying what we thought would "make a difference."
Charlie set us straight on many an occasion and we developed a remarkable correspondence - a portion of which will be in the book I am writing on remarkable people whose paths I crossed.
Anne Weedman
February 12, 2010
When I was a little girl Charles Wilson was campaigning for his first political office of State Rep. He met me on the street in Lufkin, gave me a nail file with his name on it, and asked me if I would vote for him. That contact influenced me toward a life of working for social change and working to help elect candidates who hold the same ideals as Charles Wilson.
Barbara Goldberg Goldman
February 12, 2010
Charlie's love for life was reflected in everything that he did. He was a marvelous politician, in the finest sense of the word, who seemed to be able to put all situations into proper perspective, no matter how big or small. He made everyone feel as though they were so very important. I shall never forget the many, many fond times that we shared up on the Hill. But most of all, I shall never forget his unwavering friendship! I will miss him. My sincerest thoughts of condolence go out to his beloved wife, Barbara, and his family members. May his memory be for a blessing. Shalom Haver.
Phil Fleming
February 12, 2010
Of course, I was aware of Charlie Wilson through the Film, and Documentary about him.
I believe Tom Hanks, and Director Mike Nichols best described him:
"He was a kind man who never had an unkind word to say about anyone".
Mrs. Wilson, I wanted to express my deepest condolence for your loss.
I belong to The Episcopal Church and Charlie's name will be placed on our prayer list.
May The Peace of The Lord Be With You Always,
With Deepest Sincerity, and Prayers.
Phil Fleming+
Prattille, Alabama
[email protected]
February 12, 2010
To the family and friends, I am sorry for your loss. I did not know him, but of him. A great patroit, I wish we had many more like him, what an examble for all of us. sincerely Tom B ogaet
Don Hancock
February 12, 2010
Thank you Charlie. You were one of the best.
Carol Jean Smith
February 12, 2010
Charlie gave me the opportunity to become a District Assistant in his Lufkin office in 1977-1985. I will forever be thankful for the opportunity he gave me to experience firsthand how much he valued his constituents in East Texas. Many memories will forever be in my heart especially...town meetings in the mobile office...(even driving that huge thing) Vice President Mondale's visit... Washington D.C. visits, and getting to meet & learn from so many great East Texans. I will miss you Charlie! Barbara my thoughts and prayers are with you and I thank you for loving Charlie, taking such good care of him & making him so happy. I will never forget the FIRST time he met you and how he could not stop talking about you! See Ya Good Time Charlie!
Ken King
February 12, 2010
My sisters husband, Jimmy McCasland was a business partner of Charlie's in Trinity. They had the Tax Office in town and I was the lawn boy.
I also mowed Charlie's yard and almost had a job painting his Mother's house, but the house was too big for me.
I met Charlie at Town Banquets, and in the Office as a young boy. He was a Trinity boy that eventually made it big and inspired me to become active in what I believe.
Ken King
February 12, 2010
Mrs. Wilson,
Please accept our condolences for your loss. My father served in Congress with Congressman Wilson in the 1970’s and went on several foreign fact-finding trips with him. My father recalls that Congressman Wilson was never a hypocrite and as a man whose word was gold.
Your loss is shared by the people of Texas and a grateful nation.
Tom Esch
Kalispell, Montana
[email protected]
Carol Jean Smith
February 12, 2010
Charlie gave me the great opportunity to be a district assistant working out of the Lufkin office in 1978. I will always rememder, cherish and be thankful for the many experiences, adventures and the knowledge I gained from working for and with Charlie. He was a true giant in many ways and he cared deeply for the people of East Texas. He always looked forward to the weekly reports that kept him posted of any and everything going on in his district while he worked in Washington. The trips to the Washington office, the town meetings from the mobile office, Vice President Mondale's visit and many other memories will forever be in my heart. I will miss you Charlie!
My thoughts and prayers are with you Barbara. You were his greatest accomplishment! Thank you for loving and taking care of him. I remember the first time he met you and how he could not stop "talking about you!
The world has lost a true patriot and public servant.
CHARLES SMITH
February 12, 2010
A LONGTIME FRIEND! WORKED FOR CHARLIE RIGHT OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL AT THE "BIG TIN BARN", DIBOLL, TEXAS. HE LEFT A STRONG IMPRESSION ON ME AND WILL ALWAYS BE A HERO TO ALL "EAST TEXANS"
CHARLES R. SMITH
Don Ellis
February 12, 2010
Never got to meet you, but as one Texan to another, "Ya dun good!" I only wish we had more like you now that we have our own Afghan problems. R.I.P., ole Buddy.
D Hanscom
February 12, 2010
He was a true patriot and a true Texan. His story inspired me.
ed granger
February 11, 2010
A Great Man is gone! A Great Texan is gone. My Hero Is gone! I had wished to meet him, now i will have to wait a while longer! We had the same Doctor in Houston! Those that knew him were Very lucky! To his Family, i am very sorry for your loss! My Prayers are with you! I know God has a Special place for him!
E. Kornegay
February 11, 2010
Charlie was not the guy in the movie..he was indescribable. Flamboyant, yes, but hard-working country boy who went to the big city, did good, and came home.
Myrtle Vines Foreman
February 11, 2010
Charlie was a great Congressman, he worked hard for East Texas, he will be missed, thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Sara Bishop
February 11, 2010
Mrs. Wilson,
Our family has you in our thoughts and prayers. Your husband is a special hero to those of us who are veterans. It is only right that he will rest in Arlington with the other heroes of our country, for that is what he truly was.
Kathy English Berke
February 11, 2010
My condolences and prayers to his family and friends. I know he was loved by so many. Once in the late 60's I was sailing with friends on Sam Rayburn when our boat capsized. He was on a huge boat nearby and sailed over. He reached down to help pull me out of the water as I was flailing about. He asked us all if we were okay and stayed a while to make sure. He may literally have saved my life and maybe some others also. That day will always be etched in my memory.
hpm
February 11, 2010
Barbara, although I do not know you well I want to tell you my perspective on Charlie and the impact he has had on my life. I was born in Lufkin and Charlie has been a part of my world my whole life. My mother was from Huntsville and her mother and Charlie's mother taught school together. My mother used to laugh and tell us how she and Charlie played together when their Mother's got together on weekends.As life went on, in the 70's Charlie hired me to an intern after my freshman year in college. On Friday afternoons my assignment was to go to the Smithsonian and report to him the next week what I saw and learned. I thought he was nuts, but I now realize what a privelege that was. In the 70s and 80s my mother later was an elected official on the local and then state level. I watched how much Charlie helped her.In the early 80s I ran for a county office and Charlie helped me.
As I read the comments tonight I am struck by how his compassion for his felow man crossed every line-race, sex, religion, origin- and he truly took the job of being a "public servant" to heart. I do not think a great many here realize just how much he and his power for East Texas will be missed. As powerful as his personality was and as cold and bleak Lufkin Texas is tonight I want you to know I sense the hole in your heart. God bless,
simple man
February 11, 2010
Charlie was one of the last of his kind, a real man of the people. Thanks for never allowing East Texans to be tread on, and for your years of service to our country and freedom, R.I.P good ol' country boy.
"For Curtis Ellisor- From his Good Friend-Charlie Wilson"
P. Ellisor Fowler
February 11, 2010
Our thoughts & prayers are with you
Grover Parrott Rph
February 11, 2010
In 1960 Charlie Wilson, Tall, handsome with a booming voice introduced him- self to us in Simpsom's Pharmacy Judson Center Lufkin, Tx. All of us were so impressed we supported him in every election. He is so much more, this giant of a man than any that followed him even to the highest office. We will miss you Charlie.
February 11, 2010
A Great Man, A Great Texan, A Great Congressman. The Hummingbirds will miss you.Our prayers go out to Barbara.
TMGx2, Lufkin,Texas
Robert Young
February 11, 2010
Truly a great man! Smart and courageous. They are hard to find in life and almost impossible to find in office.
Glenn & Heidi Eramo
February 11, 2010
Barbara,
Please accept our sincere sympathies. We will miss your truly amazing man. A great American who really did represent the people. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Charlie as America sheds a tear for a truly Great American.
God Bless
Rick Moore
February 11, 2010
Barbara, all of your friends from Banff are thinking of you. God bless Charlie.
Rick Moore
Lisa Johnson
February 11, 2010
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Wilson serveral years ago when he visited the office where I work. He was very personable - a larger than life character and very suave. May he rest in peace.
Linda Clay Baker
February 11, 2010
As a young political science/education major at SFA, I was given the wonderful opportunity to intern in the Washington, DC office and then in the Lufkin office. This was in 1979 and 1980, and I thought this would be an invaluable experience for me to one day take to my classroom. For many years since then, I have been a civics and geography teacher for middle school students outside Tulsa. I wish Charlie could have seen some of the faces on my students when we talked about civic responsibility or some of the projects they completed. Who would have ever thought that the giant from East Texas could have played a part in the lives of middle school students in Coweta, Oklahoma.
February 11, 2010
I first met Mr. Wilson this past year and i tell you he was a very kind hearted man. In the few months i knew him, he totally blew me away. It is with my deepest regret to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Barbara Wilson.
February 11, 2010
Barbara,
We grieve this loss. He mattered to so many, and cared for so much.
Cindy and Richard Cashion
Jill Axford
February 11, 2010
Charlie did so much for so many. I am so sorry for your loss.God bless him and keep him.
February 11, 2010
Barbara,
Thanks for sharing "MR Wilson" with all his friends. God Bless You!
Poppa & Nanu
Kathleen Hawkins
February 11, 2010
Thank you, Barbara, for sharing Charlie with us last summer for lunch.Rest in heavanly peace DEAR FRIEND.
Gail Jones
February 11, 2010
What a great man Charlie was! Many great memories of him and working for him. He will be missed.
Dan Murphy
February 11, 2010
Barbara - as I never had the pleasure to meet you personally, I did have the opportunity to know Charlie and helped him when ever asked to, as my father Larry worked for him on capital hill for 23 years. Unfortuniatly my father is not in a position to contact you or attend Charlies services, I know he cherished Charlie and would be saddened to hear of your loss.
I can still to this day remember seeing Charlie and how he lit up a room when he entered, there are many memories.
A Fellow Veteran
February 11, 2010
Barbara, Please accept our condolences at this time. After his retirement he came home to be with the folks he cared for all those years. He was truly a National Treasure and the last of the "Old Breed". The lamp of freedom just dimmed a bit. RIP
Julie Harris
February 11, 2010
There won't be another Charlie but we can sure as heck celebrate the fact that we even got the one!
Munazzar Tapal
February 11, 2010
I did not meet him, but would have loved to...If only his advice was heeded at that time, there would have been a lesser war in the regions...God bless his soul!
Froggy Worden
February 11, 2010
I didn't know much about Charlie until I saw Tom Hanks in "Charlie's War." That film changed my mind and I started admiring more him and more. I just wish he could have lived until he got some other things done.
Froggy Worden
Fort Worth
[email protected]
Wayne and Susan Triana
February 11, 2010
Charlie Wilson helped our uncle and aunt during a difficult time, and we will always be appreciative. He represented the people of East Texas well, and we will miss him. Our deepest sympathy to his family...
Gordon Jones, Jr.
February 11, 2010
I just saw Charlie last Friday in Starbucks in Lufkin, holding court with some friends. What a man, indeed! I so hate of hear of his passing. I admired him very much!
My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
RIP Charlie! You'll forever be remembered!
February 11, 2010
I am one of the thousands of nameless, faceless Americans represented by Congressman Wilson through the years. As is with so many, I knew him, he knew not me. It mattered not what my station in life, he was my spokesman, my protector and my servant as for any other. He led with his heart, always speaking for what he thought was right for the people, not just of the United States, but of the world. I honour Charlie Wilson, and gratefully honour his service to his country and the mankind.
william ludwig
February 11, 2010
Mr Wilson had a well deserved reputation for constituent services. A "deep east" Texas community was struggling to keep a foreign born physician at a rural community health center. His office called the INS and suddenly to problem was resolved in his and the community's favor. Bravo!
Stephanie Edwards
February 11, 2010
My husband met Mr. Wilson when he was 10 yrs old and always thought he should have been President. I also had the pleasure of meeting Charlie Wilson in Lufkin several years ago at a Chamber First Friday Luncheon. He was a remarkable man and his many accomplishments will be remembered forever. Rest in Peace
February 11, 2010
To the Family of Charlie Wilson,
So sorry to hear of the sudden death of a such high energy person like Charlie. In this difficult time like this find comfort in the thought at Psalms 34:18-"God is near to those that are broken at heart, and those who are crushed in spirit he saves".
We can feel that Death can leave a heartache that nothing can heal, just know that Love can leave a memory that no one can steal.
Grant Family
D. Sue Horne
February 11, 2010
Charlie,
I will always cherish the times that we spent together. The note that you sent with the enlarged photograph which read...."keep this it will be famous someday" indeed is famous to me. It was always a joy to share our Wilson heritage and to have you represent it so exubertantly.
You lived life to the fullest "Cousin Charlie" and your love of family, friends and country was an example to us all.
You will be missed.
Charles Wilson Hill
Jeff Hill
February 11, 2010
I named my dog after this great American. He is a fun loving, kind hearted soul too.
John Friesen
February 11, 2010
Charlie,
Onward to the next great adventure. What a life and legacy, truly an amazing story about a small town East Texas boy making a difference and leaving this world a better place. Your contributions will not be forgotten.
Respectfully,
John
Mary Phillips
February 11, 2010
My mother, Mrs. W. F. Purdy in Diboll, thought the world of Charlie. He was in Diboll on Diboll Day one year and had his picture taken with her. I'm so sorry to hear of this tragic news.
Mary Purdy Phillips
Brenham, Texas
C.H. McClure
February 11, 2010
It was a pleasure to have known a giant such as Charlie Wilson was. There will never be another one like him.
February 11, 2010
I would have liked to have personally known this man. I was shocked and saddened when I heard of his death. Our country now needs more men like he was. Sorry for your loss. Pat Florence(Louisville, Ky
Jan Dobbs Barton
February 11, 2010
As a child, I walked the neighborhoods with my grandfather, knocking on doors, asking folks to vote for Charlie when he first ran for State office.
In 1974 Congressman Wilson spoke at our Nacogdoches HS graduation and I was one of the hostesses at the party given in his honor afterwards. Through the years I have sent him letters inviting him to our class reunions and he would always have to decline, but he would send wonderful handwritten notes along with pictures or something for me to add for a fundraiser.
I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing.
Don Dukeman
February 11, 2010
To a TRUE AMERICAN HERO! Rest in Peace and Thank You. You deserve a Star on the Wall.
John Kitchens
February 11, 2010
Thank you for your long service to the country.
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Estate Settlement Guide
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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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