My prayers to the Rios family...Charlie was a great man with a big heart always willing to help others. Remember the 1st time I met PC was at GNP back in 1997. Joann,PC and myself were the only co-workers on the production floor.He always called us "mijas".So we started calling him "Papa Charlie"....and from than on everybody called him "Papa Charlie". As more persons were hired he was Papa to everyone and we were all his mijas and mijos...i am sorry that I was not able to say my goodbyes ....was out of town.
Going to miss you Papa! Until we meet again....Always Lil Rosie Alcantara

Hi Kelly,

It was all God's timing.  I do pray that God comforts Diane and the children during this time of loss. 

If you'll remember, I prayed for Charlie two times; after I first arrived and then right before I left the room.

I really don't remember everything that I prayed and/or said to him, but here are some details that I remember. They also might not be in the correct timing order:

1. The first time, while holding his finger, I asked him three times that if he could hear me, to squeeze my finger.  Many people who are in comas or are unconscious are still able to hear and sometimes respond.  I felt that he squeezed my finger at least once (maybe twice), although it was a weak squeeze, it still had some strength.

Dale,

Thank you for taking the time and effort to come to the hospital to see Charlie. As I mentioned to you in the hospital, Charlie decided to leave this earth right after you prayed with him. Anthony said the family had been telling him since yesterday morning that it was ok to let go, but Charlie kept hanging on. Even when Lauren, Amelia, Al, and I arrived at the hospital around 3 pm Charlie's breathing was shallow, but a constant rhythm. I figured it could be another 4, 6, 8 hours.

We all would like to know what you said to him. What was your prayer with him? What were these last words that convinced him to let go?

Anthony, who admits to being not a very religious person, said, "It was as if Dale brought God to him to take him. I am so thankful for that."

I am heartbroken for you, Diane.  I know what a struggle this has been for both of you.  Charlie was a special man and I am so happy I could call him my friend, but so sad to lose him.  I will miss his sense of humor - he had a gift of making other people smile.

Start by getting some rest.  You probably don't realize how exhausted you are from being the caregiver and staying strong for him.  Let others help you.  Don't make any life changing decisions for a while.  It is all too overwhelming and you are in emotional shock.  You don't need to rush into anything - just take things at a pace that is comfortable for you.  

If you need to talk, I'm here to listen.  If you want me to let people know, I will, or you can do that in your own time.  I told Cindy and the lead team that Charlie was having a rough day, but I did not go into details.

Hug your family and your dogs.  It really does help.

I'm relieved Charlie is not suffering anymore, but none of us were ready to let him go, and I'm sure especially not you.

Sending you love and wishing you peace.

Dear Diane,

I was just thinking about Charlie and praying our original Christmas thoughts wouldn't be true.  Just one more Christmas with his family, please......

Then came the email from Tekla.  I am so sorry and so sad.  I miss him already.  Please know my thoughts and prayers are with your and your family.  If there is ANYTHING I can do please let me know.  I want to reach out and hug you now.......

Cindy

Uncle Charlie... A cool dude... When he asked how you were doing, he wanted to hear every bit of it.


although ive only known charlie for a couple of years, i will always remember him making me laugh and smile with his sharp and sometimes corny wit. he will be missed certainly and i consider myself lucky to have known him.
to the rios family, i'm saddened  and sorry for the pain that saying goodbye causes.
kevin stryke

OBITUARY

Charlie Rios

11 July, 1943 – 3 December, 2017

Pierce Brothers Turner & Stevens Mortuary

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