THE most infectious and genuine smile of anyone I have ever known.

U of MN “Ballyhoo” dance competition during Spring Jam

SigEp composite pics

Of course Charles caught the garter at our wedding. ❤️

St Patrick’s Day

It’s hard to put into words the devestating loss of such an amazing human. To Charles family and his girlfriend: I can not imagine what you are going through my thoughts and prayers are with you all. He left an imprint on so many hearts including mine. I was a freshman football cheerleader and he was on the team when we met and became fast friends. I fondly referred to him as Chuckles with that bright smile and his sense of humor he was always making everyone laugh. We also  shared a love of music and were in choir together. A vivid memory I have is when we got to sing the national anthem for a Timberwolves game. The ride home was so much fun all because of him. We had that bus rockin! The song ‘Come on ride that train’ came on and we were all jammin out, singing and just having the best time. He kept pretending like he was pulling the train whistle and whenever I hear that song to this day I smile ear to ear and remember that moment. Just one of the many memories I have of him. He was such a bright light in this often dark world. I will choose to continue to be a bright light like he was in honor of him. I won’t let the darkness of our world consume me. May the memories we all have of Charles hold us close during this painful time as we grapple with this painful way too soon of a loss. Charles my hope is you knew and felt how LOVED you are. Until we meet again my dear friend.

I will never forget the confidence he gave me. As I tried to acclimate to college life, and a much larger city than my hometown, he took me under his wing as a great big brother does. He propped me up, he encouraged me, and he made me laugh endlessly. He was the alpha in the room, but took the effort to connect with me every time. That meant everything. I will miss you, brother. Give a big bear hug to Aloma for us.

The big smile that lit up any room Charles walked into.

Miss you brother.