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Charles Rufus Wheat

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San Francisco State University Syracuse University

Charles Wheat Obituary

WHEAT, Charles Rufus - March 25, 1924 - September 28, 2005 Charles, born in Norfolk, VA, passed away after a long period of illness in Modesto, CA. He served in the Army on active duty during WW II and the Korean War, and then remained in the Army Reserves and the California National Guard. He attended Syracuse University and graduated from San Francisco State University. He worked in the San Francisco schools as a high school teacher and later as a substitute in Palm Desert. His daughter, Karen Salas, and son, Matthew, survive him, along with three grandchildren and two great-grand- children, as well siblings Katharine, Sheila, Patricia, and Richard. Interment will be at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery.

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle on Sep. 30, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Wheat

24 Entries

John McGlinchy

June 17, 2025

At the Maui condo summer 1979. Our fathers were both teachers at Galileo. And I believe Lois taught at Lincoln. RIP to all, except me.

Victor Osborne

July 5, 2022

Mr. Wheat...one of my favorite teachers at Galileo High School in San Francisco 1975-1978.

Anthony Salas

October 28, 2005

I just wanted to say that I know Charles and I had our differences, I always held the greatest respect for him. He will be missed!

Katharine Erickson

October 18, 2005

"It is in dying that we are born again to eternal life"

I know that Charles is at peace and with those who proceeded him and have always loved him.

All the pain and grief is over.

Every restless tossing passed;

I am now at peace forever,

Safely home at last.

Love,

Katharine

This is me and my Dad

Karen Wheat-Salas

October 14, 2005

I just wanted to say that thru the bad times and good, no matter what I always loved my dad. I miss him terribly and wish that I could go back in time, so that I could have more good times with him. I have had time to think since he passed away on how much I will miss his dumb jokes and funny songs he would make up and his wonderful smile and laugh. I love you dad!

Gloria Wheat

October 8, 2005

As the mother of Charles' two children, Karen Rae and Matthew Robert, I recall 52 years of his jokes and laughter. His military and teaching careers gave him the background for many of his stories. He'll always be remembered for his charm, sense of humor, interest in government and politics and concern for our country's future.

Monica Downing

October 8, 2005

I remember, from the time I was really little, my Uncle Charlie coming over to our house for summer parties and family get together's. He was always telling jokes and laughing that unique unforgettable laugh of his. When I was 4 years old I received a teddy bear that I had waited a long time to get, and I named him Uncle Charlie. My kids as they have grown have both had their time with that teddy bear and gotten to hear the story of who he was named after. They finally got to meet him when he was living with Karen in Modesto and I am so thankful for that. They talk about him so much. Even though years went by without me seeing my Uncle Charlie he was always with me, and he always will be. He will be greatly missed.

Ron Wheat

October 8, 2005

I never had the privilege of getting to know you,but my mom and dad often spoke fondly of you.Godspeed on your journey home.Tell my pop (Frank) hi when you arrive at your destination.Both of you are missed by your loved ones.Deepest sympathy to your family.Love to all!

Katie Kail

October 7, 2005

Uncle Charlie's laugh - what a joyful sound!!! I am forever grateful to him for checking in on Mom (Juliette) and for just being there. I pray he has found peace. Love to all, Katie.

Chris Kail

October 6, 2005

Uncle Charlie was a great guy and one of my great privelages was that my mother, his sister Juliette, said that I always reminded her of him in my looks and personality. I will miss him. My condolances to his family from me and my family. See you later Uncle Charlie.

John Daniel Pezzella

October 5, 2005

Uncle Charlie:

I never knew you. My mother, your sister Patsy loved you very much and often conveyed her love and good wishes for for you. I hope we do meet one day, I hope in paradise.

To your family, I am sorry for your loss. May God comfort you as only He can.

Danny Pezzella

Tracy Yust

October 5, 2005

I have many fond memories of Uncle Charlie. I always loved his laugh! My prayers are with all of you.

Tracy

Roberta Rule

October 5, 2005

My condolences to the Salas & Wheat families. Your Father was quite a character & his antics always made fascinating stories. I will try to be there for you if you need any extra support.

gini mackie

October 5, 2005

Charles was always lots of fun to be around.....a warm and loving father. I am so sorry for your loss Salas family.

patricia Pezzella

October 5, 2005

May the angels lead him into paradise,may the martyrs come to welcome him into the holy city,Jeruisalem.I love you charlie and will remember you always.God bless you.Patsy

Margy Moffett

October 5, 2005

My dad, Francis Byrne Wheat, was Charles Rufus Wheat's older borther. He spoke often and with great affection about Uncle Charlie. I am sorry for your loss--it is hard to lose a dad no matter what age you are. My mom, Margueritte Wheat, has many fond memories of Uncle Charlie. You will be remembered in our prayers. Margy Moffett, Margueritte Wheat and family.

Desiree' Turner

October 5, 2005

I remember all the stories Grandpa would tell and how interesting they were and how he would talk to anybody and could make you laugh. I will miss you dearly.

The Turner Family

Jason Salas

October 5, 2005

Love you Grandpa, I will miss you!