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Charles Alsheimer Obituary
Charlie was born in Bath, New York, on May 1, 1947, the son of the late Charles H. and Eleanor (Rose) Alsheimer. On April 22, 1972, he married Carla S. Todd, who survives. Also surviving are Charlie's son, Aaron; his sisters, Linda Alsheimer, Virginia (Steven) Verbanic, Kathleen Fervan, and Lorraine (Allen) Kurak; and several nieces and nephews.
Charlie graduated in 1966 from Avoca Central School, where he was a standout basketball and baseball player. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1967, and served proudly in Vietnam, achieving the rank of sergeant prior to being honorably discharged in 1970. Following his military service, Charlie attended Corning Community College, where he played basketball and earned an associate's degree in business. He then worked for seven years in sales and marketing at the Gunlocke Company in Wayland, New York.
In 1979, Charlie left the corporate world to chase his dream of a full-time career as a nature photographer and writer. He went on to achieve remarkable success, becoming one of the most widely published outdoor photographers of his era. His images were featured in thousands of magazines, books, and calendars and won countless awards.
Charlie's favorite subject, both as a photographer and writer, was the whitetail deer. He was a preeminent expert on deer behavior and collaborated on groundbreaking research on the moon's impact on whitetail breeding patterns. Charlie authored seven best-selling books and hundreds of magazine articles on the whitetail. He served as field editor of Deer & Deer Hunting magazine for nearly 38 years and as host of Deer & Deer Hunting TV, which aired on the Outdoor Channel.
Above all, Charlie was a man of profound faith. He credited God for all he accomplished and was eager to share Christ's impact on his life with everyone he met. This impact was evident in the way Charlie freely gave of his time and resources to so many.
Family and friends are invited to call from 1pm to 3pm and 6pm to 8pm on Thursday, January 4, 2018, at Buena Vista Wesleyan Church, 6034 County Route 69, Canisteo, New York 14823. A funeral and committal service with military honors will be held at Buena Vista Wesleyan Church at 11am on Friday, January 5, 2018, with Reverend Daniel Pickering officiating. Burial will be in Bath National Cemetery.
Donations in Charlie's memory may be made to either Buena Vista Wesleyan Church, 6034 County Route 69, Canisteo, New York 14823, or Family Life Ministries, P.O. Box 506, Bath, New York 14810.
Online condolences and memories may be shared through hpsmithandsonfuneralhome.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for Charles Alsheimer
Sponsored by H.P. Smith & Son, Inc. Funeral Home - Canisteo.
Walt Hammond
January 5, 2022
I never got to meet Charlie, but he has inspired me through his work, his knowledge and his faith for many years. I still think of him often. Charlie was a gifted man in many ways. He will continue to be a wonderful inspiration to many people for years to come. Rest in Peace my friend and enjoy your time in paradise.
April 2, 2018
I received my new copy of deer and deer hunting just the other day and still in shock! loved his work and sadly missed . my regards to your family... Kevin babcock marlboro NY
Joe Jordan
March 26, 2018
I'm a huge fan of Mr. Alsheimer and his numerous articles and books. I heard him speak at a wildlife banquet in Virginia and had the pleasure of meeting him in person. His passion for whitetail deer and photography and his respect for those who serve in our nation's military was obvious. However, his love for God and faith in Jesus Christ will impact lives for eternity. I know he is with Jesus now, probably wearing that infectious smile and asking a thousand questions about God's creation of wildlife. I pray God's blessings and comfort for his family.
Greg Sesselmann
March 19, 2018
I had the privaledge to have met Charles several times and heard him speak a few also while working in the hunting industry. He was a great talent with a camera; putting us right with the animals and was a warrior for Christ. He possessed and shared freely his great knowledge about whitetails.
He traveled to churches to speak to sportsmen in his later years to the exclusion of all other industry traveling as i understand; fearlessly hailing Jesus.
Truly a great sportsman, photographer, family man and industry leader. You will continue to inspire hunters for years to come.
I hope to see you in paradise , in the beautiful moutains and fields filled with game and spend time with you there just chewin on a piece of grass talkin bout it
Bruce Christopher
March 7, 2018
I just found out today March 6, 2018 of the passing of Charles J. Alsheimer, when I received my current issue of Whitetail News & saw his picture on the front cover. He was a very gifted outdoor writer and photographer, who shared his faith, & love for God not with just deer hunters, but with everyone. He had a way of connecting with you whether you were a whitetail hunting euthisiast, or if you just loved nature, & enjoyed being immersed in the outdoors. The knowledge he shared through his articles, books, & stories was an education in it self. I never met Charles in person, or heard him speak at a deer hunting seminar, but because of Charles I became a better deer hunter. Because, of his conservation contributions to deer, & deer hunting we are able to to enjoy the benefits of many resources. My sincere sympathy, & condolences to his wife, family, & friends.
January 21, 2018
Charlie was one of the nicest persons I ever had the privelige of meeting. My sincere sympathy to his wife and son. Gail Calkins
January 21, 2018
Charles Alsheimer's death is a great loss, like that in 1819 of John Cavanagh, a house-painter famous for his skill at "fives" (i.e., handball). The opening sentences of William Hazlitt's 1819 essay applies as well to Mr. Alsheimer:
"When a person dies, who does any one thing better than any one else in the world, which so many others are trying to do well, it leaves a gap in society. It is not likely that any one will now see the game of fives played in its perfection for many years to comefor Cavanagh is dead, and has not left his peer behind him."
Charles Alsheimer, indeed, leaves a gap in society, and we sorely miss him.
David A. Richardson (Cleveland, OH)
elly knapp
January 19, 2018
What a great family i use to be w/ his mom alot an all the family. SO sorry for their loss. elly.
January 13, 2018
The world has lost a true man of God. Visited with Charlie many times at his home in Avoca. He was a welcoming and inspiring human being. Called me once when an old time friend of his, Rocky Colavito was visiting. Thru Charlie's thoughtfulness I was able to meet a life long hero of mine. What better can be said of a man than, a true man of God. The world is a sadder place. Walt DeLap, Captain NYSP BCI (retired)
Gus Polli
January 10, 2018
I met Charles Alsheimer only once in Johnstown N.Y. at a seminar but I certainly felt a great admiration and affection for him. His articles and photos got me started in QDM on my farm in Grand Gorge, N.Y. His success gave me the hope, faith, and confidence to try whitetail management. Deer and Deer Hunting was a favorite magazine, as was the TV show. He was tops... just outstanding! He will be missed and no one can replace his photography skills and knowledge. My best to his family....please know he was loved and admired by many who were proud to call themselves deer hunters and followed his advice and guidance. May he rest in peace and forever enjoy only beautiful, colorful, fall days and big rutting deer.
Sincerely,
Gus F. Polli
Retired Lieutenant NYS University Police Albany, N.Y.
Dennis Emo
January 9, 2018
One of the good guys. Well done.
Ray Porzio
January 9, 2018
Dear Charlie,
I read your books and have admired you greatly. I enjoyed speaking to you when you gave a talk in Syracuse. I made your favorite verse Proverbs 3:5-6 my own: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your way acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths"
God Bless you Charlie Alsheimer and Thank you! I pray and hope to see you in Heaven.
Don Harrington
January 8, 2018
Charles,
I did not know you personally, but admired your outdoor knowledge of animal behavior and to share it with your outdoor audience. I have several of your books and I continue to read occasionally. I'll miss your eye catching photography and your well written articles.
Rest in Peace Sir.
Tommy Kirkland
January 6, 2018
Charlie was an inspiration for many folks. His photographic work with whitetails remains unsurpassed from film to digital as well as his knowledge of the animal. May the Almighty grant his family and friends comfort, strength, and peace, Psalms 29:11
Tommy Kirkland, Alcoa, TN
Dawn
January 6, 2018
It seems only right to write a condolence regarding Mr. Alsheimer. He was such a unique light in the world. Although I can't imagine the pain everyone must be feeling, I just wanted to offer my sincerest condolences to the family. Never forget that God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds at Psalm 147:3. May the God of all comfort be with you during this difficult time. Truly sincerest condolences.
Kevin Wargula
January 6, 2018
I never got the chance to meet you but I followed you through you articles in D&DH since you first came to the publication in 1979 I was age 12. You, Leonard Rue,Rob Wegner were to me what superheros were to kids who were into comics. Back in Jan 0f 2011 There was a presentation given by Jack Brauer about the history of D&DH at the museum in Oshkosh WI which my father and I went to. I got Jacks autograph in my D&DH book the first 25yrs I just wish that you could have been there so I could have met you and got your autograph! D&DH will never be the same.
Ken Harmon
January 5, 2018
I was always fond of Charles and especially appreciated his willingness to support our church sportsman dinners bringing his Christian testimony with boldness.
Donald Lysyczyn
January 5, 2018
I was planning on attending the services for Charlie but due to the weather conditions was unable to make it. I'm sending my condolences to Carla,Aaron and the entire Alsheimer Family. May the Good Lord give you strength to make it through this most difficult time.
Fran Koon
January 5, 2018
What a great person we have lost.when we lived in Avoca our lands joined.He used to let our son shoot hoops in his barn.Took a few pictures for us.Always had a smile. Rest in peace.
Tim Glodoski
January 4, 2018
I had the privilege of spending 3 days with Charlie when he came up to Green Bay to speak at our church. We took time to go through the Packers facilities which Charlie really enjoyed and just spent quality time together talking about life and our faith. He was a great man and will be missed. My condolences to his family.
Jerry Gebhard
January 4, 2018
Charles,
I did not know you personally, but admired your knowledge and your willingness to share it with your readers. I have several of your books, and they are the only books I own that I re-read occasionally.
I'll miss your writings.
Rest in Peace Sir.
Donald Lysyczyn
January 4, 2018
Charlie:RIP I was shocked when I heard of your passing. I'm not sure what happened but I know GOD must have needed you in Heaven for something special. We were boyhood friends and neighbors. We spent many hours playing "Cowboys & Indians",sledding,baseball,football, etc.(I still have a scar on my nose from a sled accident we were involved in). Brother John & I still talk about the time you got us to hike to the Edward's farm on Smith Pond to look for some deer antler sheds you had found. Looking back on it,I think your destiny & vocation were sealed at that time. I hunted for many years out of one of your stands in the apple orchard on my Mom & Dad's farm. Finally the old tree collapsed about 10 years ago. I often thought about you as I sat there watching for deer. I did manage to get several deer from that stand. When I saw you over the past few years, you would always invite up to the Deer Enclosure on your farm. I regret not taking you up on your invitation. The last time we spoke was at my Mom's funeral in April 2017. I asked you when you were going to retire. Your response was"Why should I retire, I've got the best job in the world" How true those words were and I always envied you. You were always a good and Godly man, a conservationist and mentor to many, including me. I always read your articles as well as the entire D&D Hunting magazine for the past 30+ years. I'm positive you are enjoying your time with the Lord, 'til we meet again, Don !
Don Lysyczyn , [email protected]
Steve D
January 4, 2018
Bless your family, may God give them peace and comfort at this time.
You did the Lord's work ! Well done faithful servant.!
Vince Luce
January 4, 2018
A true Deer Hunting Legend has just passed, but even more than that, a great person. I grew up reading Charles' stories in Deer & Deer Hunting and have several of his great books. I always marveled at his photographic genius, making you think you were right there with the hunter and the deer. That is truly a talent that will be sorely missed. A man of faith too, we lost a great one.
Darrin Berghorn
January 4, 2018
Charles was a inspiring man, he will be missed and leaves behind a legacy to the Deer world. God Bless his family!!
K. Knake
January 3, 2018
Deeply saddened by the loss for his family and the entire deer hunting community. I respected and admired Charlie, reading many of his articles and books. We all lost a good man and spokesman for way of life.
Frank Magrans
January 3, 2018
My condolences to your family. Thank you for your testimony.
Scott Gage
January 3, 2018
Charlie had an immense impact on not only my hunting life but more importantly my spiritual life. Thanks Charlie. Blessing to your family at this difficult time.
Jim McEvily
January 3, 2018
So sorry to hear of Charlie's passing have heard him speak only a few times , but was always amazed at his knowledge of the outdoors and the white tailed deer. Thank you Charlie for all you have done and sharing your knowledge . Sadly missed , never forgotten. R I P
Rick Snavely
January 2, 2018
Charlie had been part of my life since I was in junior high school, where he took interest in me and taught me a number of things about the game of basketball. In my junior year of high school, our family made Charlie our spiritual target and began praying that he would come to know the Lord. I will never forget the evening in April 1971 when, after I returned from a school function, my father called me to say that he had led Charlie to the Lord that night. I had the privilege of working with Charlie helping to produce his early slide programs when he made the decision to leave the corporate world and go into full-time ministry by using his wildlife photography. His work was incredible, and he always would give glory to God for the awesome creation the Lord had made in our great land. Charlie was part of the Family Life Board of Directors some 40 years ago when the decision was made to spend some money to investigate this ministry getting into radio. His, and the other board members', faith was blessed by God as Family Life now oversees a large radio outreach. Charlie loved the Lord, his family, his country, and this ministry. He served on the Family Life Board for many years and was chairman twice. Charlie was one my big cheerleaders over the years. Whenever we received a compliment from Charlie about a production or an event that he had attended, you knew it wasn't fluff but that he was genuinely moved by our efforts. Charlie's ministry to those who loved hunting and the outdoors was not only unique but was incredibly effective. I know that there are many men and women walking with the Lord today as a result of God using Charlie and his talents to share about the salvation that He had found in Jesus Christ. He will be greatly missed, but we can have peace knowing that Charlie Alsheimer is with the Lord that he loved so greatly.
January 2, 2018
Charlie had been part of my life since I was in junior high school, where he took interest in me and taught me a number of things about the game of basketball. In my junior year of high school, our family made Charlie our spiritual target and began praying that he would come to know the Lord. I will never forget the evening in April 1971 when, after I returned from a school function, my father called me to say that he had led Charlie to the Lord that night. I had the privilege of working with Charlie helping to produce his early slide programs when he made the decision to leave the corporate world and go into full-time ministry by using his wildlife photography. His work was incredible, and he always would give glory to God for the awesome creation the Lord had made in our great land. Charlie was part of the Family Life Board of Directors some 40 years ago when the decision was made to spend some money to investigate this ministry getting into radio. His, and the other board members', faith was blessed by God as Family Life now oversees a large radio outreach. Charlie loved the Lord, his family, his country, and this ministry. He served on the Family Life Board for many years and was chairman twice. Charlie was one my big cheerleaders over the years. Whenever we received a compliment from Charlie about a production or an event that he had attended, you knew it wasn't fluff but that he was genuinely moved by our efforts. Charlie's ministry to those who loved hunting and the outdoors was not only unique but was incredibly effective. I know that there are many men and women walking with the Lord today as a result of God using Charlie and his talents to share about the salvation that He had found in Jesus Christ. He will be greatly missed, but we can have peace knowing that Charlie Alsheimer is with the Lord that he loved so greatly.
Rick Snavely, Avoca, NY
Tony F
January 2, 2018
So sad to hear about Charles passing. I only new him through the Deer and deer hunting tv show but I feel like I lost a friend. Rest in peace Charles
Bill Sullivan
January 2, 2018
Sorry to heard about Charlie he was great friend and neighbor to me and my family.i spent many days playing basketball with him in the barn. I learned a lot from him in my life . I will miss him dearly.
Steve Marshall
January 2, 2018
Saddened to hear of Mr. Alsheimer's passing. He was an excellent speaker. And an incredible warrior for Christ. I listened to him several times at our church game dinner. He, his articles and his impact will be forever remembered. I praise the Lord for his faith. His influence as a follower of Christ will live on eternally. Praying for his family. He will be missed.
Denise Wilcox
January 2, 2018
What a good man Charlie was. May his rewards be many as the lives he has touched while on this earth. Many thanks RIP Charlie.
January 2, 2018
Sorry to hear about Charlie, he was a gentleman and the favorite author of our readers in Deer & Deer Hunting magazine. He will be missed by everyone who ever crossed his path.
Jack Brauer
Co-founder, retired publisher
Stump Sitters
Bryon Zablotny
January 2, 2018
I had the privilege of hearing Charles speak several times at my church's annual Sportsman's Banquet. No matter how many times I heard him I was always awed by his knowledge of hunting, and blessed by his testimony.
Norman Bromley
January 2, 2018
So sad to hear this news. No doubt he is in the presence of the Lord. What a soldier of the faith! We had the privilege of hosting one of his speaking engagements. He was a hero to my son. I can't express what it meant to have my son look up to such a man. He loved God's creation but he loved God more. And he knew how to spread that message. My thoughts and prayers to the family. He will be missed.
John Hartung
January 2, 2018
Sorry to hear of his passing but on to his wonderful reward.
We"ll miss you Charles but for sure will be seeing you again!!!
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