Charles "Chuck" Harden

Charles "Chuck" Wesley Harden, age 53, of Sopchoppy, left this world on Oct. 3, 2023, in Vero Beach, Florida. Chuck was born on Nov. 11, 1969, in Tallahassee, to his parents, Larry and Teresa Harden, and lived in Wakulla County most of his life.

In 1987, Chuck graduated from Wakulla High School and enlisted in the United States Navy, continuing his father's military service tradition. His six years of honorable service during the Gulf War included qualifying as a Navy Electrician's Mate (EM), achieving the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, and earning the coveted title of a "Fighting Seabee." He was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Southeast Asia Medal, Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, and National Defense Service Medal.

From 1992 to 1996, Chuck served as a Sopchoppy Volunteer Firefighter. His invaluable roles included Structure Firefighter and Medical First Responder. The life-saving impact of his countless contributions with that team can never be fully measured.

His strong sense of community service took a broader path when he joined the Florida Forest Service (1996-2004). His State Forest Service accomplishments included serving on the Tate's Hell State Forest and in Franklin County as a Senior Forest Ranger, State Certified Burn Manager since 1998, and playing a key role in training all new firefighters on the district.

Chuck's continuing love of working outdoors and respect of nature led him to join the U.S. Forest Service in 2004. For the past 19 years, his professionalism and sense of humor helped the Apalachicola National Forest team thrive. Some of his most notable accomplishments there include serving as Engineering Equipment Operator (Fire Tractor/Plow); Lead Presenter, Prescribed Fire Training Center Field Day; Region 8 Heavy Equipment Committee Member; Region 8 Heavy Equipment Academy Instructor; and Semiroon Historical Society Certificate of Achievement for Prospect Bluff Development.

However, the sum of a man's life is not determined by job titles, training records or tours of duty. It's measured by the intangible impressions that person leaves on others around them. The value of Chuck's legacy is woven within the people who knew him, whether for five minutes or fifty years ... In those who witnessed his strength of character and core values. He was also known for his easy smile, sense of humor, enjoyment of hunting and fishing, and above all – love for his family and friends. He was married to Anne Eldridge Harden for 30 years and together they had three children.

Chuck is preceded in death by his father, Larry Whaley Harden; and his younger sister, Cheryl Ann Harden Andrews. He is survived by his mother Teresa Curles Harden; his former spouse, Anne Eldridge Harden; his daughters, Valerie Suzanne Harden and Sarah Joyce Harden; his son, William Chance Harden; and nieces, Natalie Andrews and Audrey Andrews.

His family appreciates your thoughts, prayers and support during this difficult time. Condolences and flowers may be sent to his children at 18 Thrasher Lane, Crawfordville, Florida and his mother at 7277 Smith Creek Road, Sopchoppy, Florida.

A Memorial Service celebrating Chuck Harden's life was held on Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. at the Sopchoppy United Methodist Church (10 Faith Ave, Sopchoppy, Florida), where he was a member, with graveside following. Visitation was from 2-3 p.m. at the church.