Chuck was born Los Angles California. He joined the air force and earned a top award in his class for radar repairman. He married Kyra Blanton and they spent 14 years together raising their 4 children: Deborah Ann Long, Kyra Susan Whitford, Bradley Wayne Mitchell, and Saundra Lynn Mitchell. After earning an aeronautical engineering degree from UCLA, he worked at North America Aviation then TRW. He met the love of his life, Mary jo Shu, and they spent the next 47 years together. For many years they lived in Manhattan Beach, CA, then moved to Salem, Oregon to be closer to the kids. They opened Minit Tune and Zeppy’s pizza/sandwich shop until retiring, spending the next 18 winters in Mazatlán, Mexico. Chuck’s kids were a high priority to him. He taught them so much in life; but perhaps the biggest lesson was keeping an open mind and not quick to judge.
Chuck was an extremely intelligent man. He was humorous, yet well educated. What he didn’t learn in school, he educated himself in. Learning was like air to him, wanted and needed. He could converse with the most intelligent people, yet still, have interesting conversations with any lay man.
His life on this world helped our lives be a much better place and we will forever be thankful to him.
This was beautiful worded about you father! Love you uncle Chuck until we meet again in the heavens.
Sending our love to you Kyra and your family with the passing of your Father.
My dear cousin , took care of me when i was very young, never forget him
I will always treasure the memories of the times I spent with Chuck. I only wish that Chuck’s Great (Kiwi) Grandson Chase could have had the opportunity to know the kind and intelligent man who I admired so very much. I especially admired Chuck and MaryJo’s relationship as well as the relationship he had with his children and grandchildren. My thoughts are with you all.
Love YOUR notes everyone. Where's the edit button 🙂
Love you notes everyone!! Thank you.
I have such fond memories of Chuck while I was growing up. We were very lucky to have him in our lives.
He taught me to play Chess and I was able to teach many, many kids in my Chess Clubs. RIP
My heart is heavy-the world has lost a dear man. I thank God for having him our lives. Rest in peace dear brother. Thinking of you with much love my dear nieces and nephew and families,
Our Hearts Are With You MaryJo and Your Family! SENDING Comfort Your Way!
Thank you for your trust in Johnson Funeral Home. We hope that Chuck's family finds the peace and comfort they need in their time of loss.