VINSON
(These words were written by Charlie, straight from his heart)
Charlie knew that he was approaching the horizon line, and he finally crossed over on the 28th day of July, 2013. As an avid river rafter, Charlie had gone through many horizon line rapids; those which you cannot see past a steep drop-off until the very last moment. This last horizon line could not be scouted, revealed no hints about what was on the other side, and promised no return.
Charlie had a great life, and he tried to live every minute of it to the fullest. His parents, Randolph and Kate Vinson, now deceased, were honest, noble and hardworking, and started him on the good life's pathway. Charlie is survived by a loving sister, Linda Vinson, of Springdale, Arkansas, and her exceptional daughters, Jennifer and Randi Gbur. He is also survived by a brother, Joe Vinson, of Albuquerque with whom he shared many adventures and experiences. Anna, his adored wife, who he regretted not having met earlier in his life, was his closest companion and provided strength and resolve as he passed over the horizon line.
Born in El Paso in 1947, Charlie lived contentedly there his whole life. He treasured friends from grade school days, and built on them until the end. He graduated with the first class of Eastwood High School, and anxiously departed for the University of Texas at Austin. There he earned three degrees and a lifelong enthusiasm for the Longhorns. Also there, fortuitously, the Tejas Club found him and gave him many lifelong friends and a new understanding of life's meaning and true rewards.
He left UT with a law degree, and had the pleasure of practicing law in El Paso, which is recognized as one of the State's most friendly and accommodating bench and bar. He was active in the bar in his earlier years, curiously even named Young Lawyer of the Year once.
He also had a great love for El Paso, which was evident as he gave back to the community with service. He was a graduate of Leadership El Paso, was active in the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and also served on the board of the City of El Paso Housing Finance Corporation. As an avid sports fan, he was a longtime supporter of the Miner basketball and football programs; and served for many years on the Sun Bowl Selection Committee.
Charlie's uncompromising love of family, friends and community will remain as his legacy in the fond memories of all who ever came into his sphere.
A Memorial Service in Celebration of Charlie's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on August 6, 2013 at Martin Funeral Home West. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MD Anderson Cancer Research at (www.mdanderson.org/gifts).
The family would like to express their gratitude for the loving care and support received from Dr. Chesbro and CIMA Hospice, especially Mary Ponzio, RN, his personal friend and case worker.
Services entrusted to Martin Funeral Home West, 128 N. Resler Dr., El Paso, Texas 79912. www.MartinFuneralHomeWest.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
December 17, 2013
Kelly Albers
Charlie: I telephoned your office to wish you a happy holiday season, and found that you had passed away, although when we last spoke, I knew that you were terminally ill. Thanks for putting up with me all of these years. My thoughts of you will always reflect on your humor, your professionalism and easy-going attitude. As I have said many times to you, but now with greater emphasis, Bless your pea-pickin' heart!
September 22, 2013
Robert Salazar
My brother just told me about Charlie's passing. I live in Portland Oregon. Charlie and I went to Burgess and Eastwood together. We played football, basketball, and track together. We went backpacking together, and went to a couple of Texas games together. His mother and father were wonderful people. My profound condolences to his friends and family.
August 8, 2013
Terri Garcia
You were always caring, thoughtful and and the best counsel. Thank you for all that you did for our family. I will miss you, friend. Gene will show you around. Thank you for being there for us in our darkest hour. To your family; I pray your warm and cherished memories will bring you comfort and peace throughout this difficult time.
August 8, 2013
Joanna Ray
Dear Charlie. So many years ago when I worked at Soutwest Title I had to walk about a block from parking lot to office. We apparently were always on the same time schedule which leads me to believe you honored commitments of time and enjoyed the same work ethic as do I. My day always started off on a positive note by looking forward to waving at you from across the street. We were across the street friends for several years then just friends for the remainder. I can't think of anyone who will be received with more loving arms in heavan than you. You are one of the geniunely nice human beings and I sure will be one of God's most favorite angels. Take care of yourself and keep waving at us. We all loved you very much Charlie. Sincerely, Joanna Ray
August 6, 2013
Mary Herrera
I had the privilege to work for Charlie for over two years. He was a kind man with a big heart. I will always remember what he did for me and my family. I am happy that I got to talk to him before his passing. Charlie you will be missed.
August 6, 2013
Dear Anna, Linda, Joe and family,
We were truly saddened to hear of Charlie's passing. Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers during your time of sorrow. He planned a great Obituary and Memorial. May he be at peace with no more suffering.
Jim and Cindy Edgar
Eastwood H.S. Alumni
August 6, 2013
I am going to miss you dearly, Charlie Vinson. I'm going to miss the times you called me to do some work for you. The conversations we had, the laughter we shared. You were more concern about my health then your own. I know for a fact you're an angel in Heaven. You were so kind and caring. I know that you will take good care of Anna, the love of your life. Miss you Charlie!
Genie Orozco
August 6, 2013
John Ciavarella
I have so many memories of Charlie that includes his sister, brother and of course his parents. These people are truely the salt of the earth.
I met Charlie through his mother and later came to know the whole family. Charlie was proud of his family and would often talk about his brother and sister. Once you were a friend of Charlie, you were a friend for lifetime.
God speed Charlie and hope to see you on the other side when my time comes.
August 6, 2013
Tammy Ricca DeShazo
RIP in Mr. Vinson. You were one of the kindest people I ever dealt with in the legal profession. You will be missed.
August 6, 2013
We have some great memories of Charlie; ski trips, backyard picnics, Miner games. He was always kind and fun with our kids and they adored him. We will miss you, Charlie V.
Gary and Debbie Crutcher
August 5, 2013
Ralph & Marlis Hodges
Charlie's family is in our thoughts and prayers. Charlie will always be alive in our good memories of him.
August 5, 2013
Samuel Prieto
I have known Charlie since we were very young and lived in Ysleta, next to his parent's Cleaner's. We kept in touch through the years. He will always remain in my heart.
August 5, 2013
Chip Howell-Castaneda
My love and condolence to all of Charlie's family and friends. He was a kind Man with Big Heart and was always the first to stand up and help a friend in need. It was a privilege and an honor to know you and grow up around you. You always were very kind and always listened when I spoke. I will always remember the great time's you, my dad and I had at the Horns and Miners Football Games. Its going to be hard not seeing your smile when I enter that stadium from now on,but I know you will be watching and shaking your head every time our teams mess up. Thank you for all the memories. GOD SPEED MY FRIEND.
August 5, 2013
Robert Carrillo Jr.
Charlie always reminded me of Atticus Finch. Very down to earth and sharp as a tack. I am thankful that I got to know him, work with him, and shoot the breeze with him. He was one of the good ones....
August 5, 2013
Ana:Our sincere sympathy goes out to you and your family. Charles was a great friend and neighbor may the LORD be with you Ana in spirit and Love.
We will all miss Charles
Always Rey II, Mayra, Twins and Martha
August 5, 2013
Karen Perdon
Mr. Vinson was a great man, very kind and always with a positive attitude. I am grateful to have met him and cared for him even for a short while. He will be missed.
August 4, 2013
Michael Edmond
Trooper, Longhorn, Tejas brave and "one of the guys" at the annual get-together in the Hill Country..fond memories spanning over 50 years since we were at EHS together. A life well lived with due respect from your peers.
August 4, 2013
Jo Ann
Charlie was a very rare breed of lawyer...he had integrity. He was honest and kind. He was not afraid to stand up for what he believed. Charlie, you will be missed here on earth, you were one of a kind. Rest in peace. My prayers go out to his family.
August 4, 2013
Jim Darnell
Charlie was a great guy and a great lawyer. He always smiled and had a pleasant word for all. He will be greatly missed.
August 4, 2013
Patrick Gunning
To Anna, Linda and Joe,
Anna, you are a lucky lady to have shared your life with Charlie. Our families have been lifelong friends with each other. I remember growing up next door to each other on Alicia Drive when our families were indeed one family. We would go to each other's house, enter without knocking, and be treated as if we were a part of the family. Having dinners together, decorating Christmas trees, playing hide-and-seek, kick-the-can, and roller skating around the block, just being kids and having fun playing together. This is how I remember the Vinson family. I could not have been more blessed as a kid than to have the chance of growing up with Randy, Katie, Charles, Linda, and Joe as our neighbors. I already miss Randolph and Katie, but I will dearly miss Charlie and his forever good natured approach on living a good life. Thanks Charlie for all you've done to influence my life. And thanks to Linda for being my best friend while growing up. I will always love you guys.
August 4, 2013
Please know that Charlie was always an example of "a good man" Recollections from Jaycee and Leadership days bring fond memories of times with Charlie.
Bobby Peña
August 3, 2013
Charlie,
Thanks so much for helping Donna and myself with my Parents passing and affairs. You treated us like family. Happy trails to a real Trooper.
Mike and Donna Riley
August 3, 2013
We will all miss your smiling face.
Martha Lawler Dunham
Eastwood class of 1966
August 2, 2013
Nancy Hall Wilson
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
August 2, 2013
Jerry Kurtyka
Charlie was on my board of directors for the Housing Finance Corporation. I appreciated his common sense and level demeanor and am sorry to hear of his passing. I do recall his telling me of raft trips, too, and his love for the Grand Canyon.
August 2, 2013
Chris Lane
Both of us rafting all our lives and never having the opportunity to float together, we kept trying to make it happen, but ran out of time. I'm gona miss you buddy!
August 2, 2013
A heartfelt thanks for your guideance and advice during our difficult time in our lives Frank Marrufo & Debbie Monedero Peace and Eternal Rest friend
August 2, 2013
Carlos Rincon
A lawyer's lawyer. Kind, charitable, engaging and accomplished. A mentor to many and a terrific role model. Made our profession and World a better place. Carlos Rincon
August 2, 2013
Madeline Irwin
What a beautiful summary of a life well lived. I teared up a bit reading the comments about his family members. Sending love to all!
August 2, 2013
Rosie
Anna,
I only met and spoke with you and Charlie at the UTEP games when Jane and I were "visiting". I wanted you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. You and Charlie had a beautiful relationship which was evident to all who met you. God bless you.
Rosie
August 1, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
August 1, 2013
Dale Ming
Charlie and I were friends since the 3rd
grade.I always admired and respected
Charle. I am going to miss you.
August 1, 2013
Michael Rea
We shared many great memories as teammates at Eastwood H.S..You will surely be missed. M.D. REA
August 1, 2013
Claudia LDL
You were a very nice person. You assisted my mom and myself, as well as my husband and me. You will be missed. Heaven has a very special angel. Thank you for your help.
August 1, 2013
Fernando Chacon
Charlie, thank you so much for being such a pleasant soul. I will remember your smile. May his family find solace in knowing that he was loved and respected by many of us. Please accept my condolences and heartfelt sorrow at his passing. I for one, will miss him. God Bless you.
August 1, 2013
Chaplain Sam Faraone
On behalf of the entire CIMA Hospice Team, please accept our sincere condolences. It was an honor to have met Charlie and to get to know him. May God's loving presence bring you comfort and strength.
August 1, 2013
Becky Baker
I pretty much grew up with Charlie around, initially as my first crush, then as the big brother....nothing but fond memories and sweetness from him....
August 1, 2013
Louie Vega
Charlie ‘Mi Amigo' vaya con dios, the Vega family will miss you including ‘Cuttie Pie' and our prayers will always and have been with you and your family. You did walk in your parents footsteps – Honest, Noble, Hardworking person who was always positive, cheerful, who loved his rafting. You will be missed a lot, your friendship was special to us and those you touched, Louie.
August 1, 2013
Connie Loewenstein
Charlie and I first met when I was just 3 and he was 2. Even though we were geographically miles apart as adults, our friendship stayed true. A good man who will be missed.
Showing 1 - 39 of 39 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more