Charlie E. Wilson

Charlie E. Wilson, lovingly known to resembled “Bob Ross,” passed away unexpectedly at his home in Mogadore, Ohio, on September 7, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on July 24, 1954, in Lakemore, Ohio, Charlie was a man whose warmth, skill, and adventurous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A 1972 graduate of Springfield High School, Charlie continued his education in appliance repair, Firefighting/EMS. In 1979, he became an apprentice with Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 219 of Akron, Ohio, where he went on to build a long and respected career specializing in various areas of the trade. Charlie retired as a proud MES Journeyman with Local 219 after 41 years of dedicated service. His strong work ethic began early; from the age of 15, he worked as a Maytag appliance repairman until he started with the Pipefitters, and he remained the kind of person friends could count on when heating and air-conditioning problems needed solving. Charlie also served his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Lakemore Fire Department from 1975 to 1985.

Charlie was a man of many interests and deep enthusiasm for life. Early in life he enjoyed the Chevy Van Club “A Few Truckers.” Later in life he enjoyed riding Harley Davidsons, camping, and fishing with his family were his favorite hobbies. He loved to travel, especially with his wife riding on the back of his motorcycle, and he treasured trips to Alaska to visit family. He never met a stranger and was always ready for a new adventure or a new friendship. Resourceful, talented, and generous, Charlie was continuously willing to help family and friends with whatever they needed. He was a natural teacher who enjoyed "educating people," and he had a rare gift for fixing just about anything. His willingness to share what he knew, lend a hand, and set off on family trips made him a steady and joyful presence in the lives of those around him.

Above all, Charlie’s life was rooted in family. He is survived by his wife, Lori Wilson, with whom he shared 19 years of marriage. He also leaves behind his sons, Jason (Templar) Wilson of Wasilla, Alaska, Craig Wilson of Anchorage, Alaska; his stepdaughters, Corrie (Brandon) Lute, Leslie Johnson, and Lindsay (Nick Geisler) Kirkman of Valley City, Ohio. He will be remembered lovingly by his grandchildren, Ryker and Tayson Wilson; Coleman and Carter Pridemore and their stepbrother Conner Lute; Jacy Pole and Halsey Anderson, and Bobbi Geisler. Charlie is also survived by Jeremy and Michael Fobes, children he raised and cared for. The love he gave so freely to his family will continue to be felt in the stories they share, the lessons he passed along, and the many ways he showed up for those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Cleo Wilson; his father, Guy P. “Buddy” Wilson; and his sister, Patricia Schafer. Their memory remained part of Charlie’s life, and now he rests with those who went before him.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N Canton Rd, Akron, Ohio 44305. A Celebration of Life will follow at 4:00 p.m. on September 12, 2026, at Army Navy Club 273, 1391 Main Street, Lakemore, Ohio 44250; per the family's request please participate in a Potluck style dinner, bringing a dish of your choice. Memorial Contributions may be made in honor of Charlie to the Lakemore Fire department,1400 Main St, Lakemore, OH 44250 or Central Mat-Su Fire Department Benevolent Fund, of Wasilla Alaska, https://central-mat-su-chapter-asfa.square.site/product/benevolent-fund-donation/26?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=false.

Charlie will be remembered for his capable hands, his generous heart, his fearless sense of adventure, and the way he made people "feel welcome" whenever he wanted. His life was one of service, hard work, laughter, and love, and his memory will remain a blessing to all who knew him.

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