Charles Joseph Zarate

Charlie was born on February 12, 1936, in Merced, CA, to Joseph and Eleanor Zarate. He was the second of seven children and spent his entire life rooted in the community he loved.

Known to many simply as Charlie, he worked various jobs throughout his life before beginning a long and proud career with Foster Farms. Starting as mechanic, he later became a truck driver, a role he often spoke about with pride-especially the fact that he logged over a million miles on the road. Charlie retired in 2001, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.

Charlie had a deep love for life and the simple joys that came with it. He was passionate about fishing, boating, and slalom water skiing, and he enjoyed collecting model cars and knives. Every Christmas season, he delighted friends and family by dressing up as Santa, spreading laughter and cheer wherever he went. He especially loved menudo-always insisting others get the foot even though we didn’t like it so he could eat it-and treasured trips to Red Lobster with his children whenever possible. In his later years, he found comfort and companionship in his beloved bulldogs Bentley, Bensen, and Roman.

Charlie was truly beloved by everyone who knew him. His sense of humor made every conversation memorable, and his presence left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to spend time with him.

Charlie is survived by his children Richard (Kathy) Zarate, Ruben (Cinnamon) Zarate of Atwater, CA, Keith Zarate of Merced CA, Angelo Zarate of Merced CA, his “favorite” daughter Carolann Zarate of Chowchilla, CA, and his honorary daughter Cynthia Zarate of Merced CA; nine grandchildren Chelsea, Anthony, Michael, Angelo Jr, Alexandria, Alanis, Cassandra, Sabrina, and Chuy; four great grandchildren Angelo III, Valentina, Jesico James, and Melody; his siblings Mary Duarte, Eleanor Reinero, and Ray (Lisa) Zarate; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Eleanor Zarate, his brothers Robert (Bob) Zarate and Richard Zarate, and sister Juanita (Cookie) Thrasher.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Stratford Evans Funeral Home, 1490 B St., Merced CA 95340. A reception celebrating Charlie’s life will follow the service.