Charles Walter Law, 84, passed away Monday, July 18, 2005 at the Idaho State Veterans Home.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, July 21, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. at Summers Funeral Homes, Ustick Chapel, 3629 E. Ustick Rd. (due to construction we will need you to enter on Cloverdale).
Charles (“Walt” or “Charlie”) was born September 16, 1920 in Baker, to Charles J. and Frances Heard Law. He spent his childhood in North Powder.
Charles loved sports and exercise, but he was especially fond of flying and travel. His love for flying and travel began when he joined the Air Force in October of 1939. He served as a pilot during three world wars and after being stationed in Saudi Arabia, traveled around the world. He married Rosemary Williamson on July 15, 1944. They had five children. He retired as a major after 26 years in the Air Force.
Charles then went to work as a flight instructor for United Airlines in Denver. This allowed him to continue his love for flying and travel. His marriage to Rosemary ended in 1975.
In April 1978, Charles met Shirley Brown in Boise, Idaho and they married on July 29, 1978. Charles and Shirley traveled extensively together, spending time in New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, China, Brazil, South Africa, England, Scotland, and Wales. His favorite memories included riding an ostrich in a race in South Africa and climbing the Great Wall of China.
Charles’ love for sports and exercise had waterskiing at the top of the list (although he never met a sport he didn’t like). He taught himself, his children, grandchildren, neighbors, and friends to water-ski. He also participated in the Senior Olympics and won gold medals in volleyball, softball, and ping-pong.
Charles was known for his kind heart and zest for life. He was also adventurous as he hot air ballooned and went whitewater rafting while in his 80’s. His hobbies included working on cars, fixing household things, and gardening.
In 1999, Charles and Shirley moved to Eagle where he was an active member of the Eagle Senior Center.
Charlie is survived by his wife of 27 years, Shirley; children Pam, Ron, Debbie, Pixie, and Brian; step children Debbie, Connie, Linda, Laurel, and Dawn; 16 grandchildren; and 2 great grandchildren.
Used with permission from: The Record Courier, Baker City, Oregon, July, 2005
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor