Some of you may or may not have met my dad, Charley. He was a great guy. I never met anyone who didn't automatically like him. He was a kind and gentle soul who loved people and Model T Fords and his family. He was one of the ever shrinking population of people who drove Model T's as their everyday cars, before anyone thought to collect them. In addition to being my father, he was my best friend. We did nearly everything together. Early this past Wednesday morning he lost his brave battle with cancer. Just as peacefully as he did with everything else, he slipped away to be with my mom. A few days before he died, he told my aunt he would drive his Model T through the pearly gates. I made sure he had a Model T ignition key in his pocket.

If you still can, call your dad today and tell him that you love him. Nobody ever regrets doing that, but some regret having not done it.

If you care to see it, there is a beautiful tribute to my dad on our Casual T's chapter website, (kind of picture heavy and slow to load), http://www.casu alts.org/

Jerry,
You have my sympathy. I met your dad many times over the years and agree with your words about him.

Jerry;
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Charlie was one of those fellows who seemed to know it all but never blew his own horn. I always looked forward to running into the two of you whenever we were at the same event and listening to him make a suggestion here or there while someone was working on their car. And when Charlie spoke, the smart folks shut up and listened. He never talked down to anyone, and he never had to make a lot of noise to get his point across. His was good, common sense advice. He will be missed.

Jerry,
Sorry to hear the news. Your dad was a wonderful guy. I always looked forward to speaking with the both of you. Kelly and My thoughts are with you. Let me know if I can do anything for you. He will be missed by the hobby. He will use his key!

Jerry, Sorry to here about your dad. I was fortunate to have met him on a few of the MTFCI Tours and he seemed to always have a great time with his son by his side. He will be missed by all that knew him.

Steve Bumgarner

All,

Thanks for your kind words. I know my dad enjoyed speaking with and meeting each of you too.