Charles E. Wenzel Jr.

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Charles Edward Wenzel Jr. who was indeed a born natural teacher/coach. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Charlie was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Charlie knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.

Charlie was born on September 7, 1928 at Franklin Square Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. His parents were Charles and Mary Wenzel. Charlie was raised in Baltimore. Even as a youngster, Charlie learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

Charlie's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during his childhood. As a young boy, Charlie enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Charles took part in lacrosse, football and any other sporting activities that came his way.

In school, Charlie was as close to being a model student as one could possibly imagine. A logical and focused thinker, Charlie was always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or were self-imposed. He graduated from Baltimore Polytechnic Institute in 1946.

Charlie’s practical work ethic carried over into his college years. His logical mind permitted him to work hard without succumbing to the usual distractions of college life. He would tackle an assignment and work through it before moving onto the next project. Charlie’s orderly nature gave way to establishing personal study habits and procedures that not only helped him stay on track but often put him ahead of schedule. When Charlie saw the need or benefit, he would willingly take on the extra assignment or even attend extra classes in order to learn more and become a better student. Charlie earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education form University of Maryland in 1952. Charlie became member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity while at University of MD.

An objective and conscientious individual, Charlie reveled in the security of his family. In 1957 Charlie exchanged wedding vows with his love of his life, Claire Decker at the Lutheran Church of Montgomery, Pennsylvania. One of Charlie’s most endearing qualities was his unending enthusiasm for organizing a celebration for his family and friends.

Charlie and Claire were blessed with one child, Charles A. Wenzel. Charlie was ever watchful with his son. He worried about Chuck and was deeply concerned for his development as he grew up. He maintained a firm hand in his upbringing. Charlie would give his stamp of approval to their requests, as long as he could see how Chuck might benefit. He also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his child was properly raised.

Charlie was a Private First Class in the Army enlisted on September 30, 1946 and served his country faithfully to February 18, 1948. His sense of duty helped lead him into the military where his understanding of rank, his willingness to abide by rules and regulations and his desire to follow orders was admired by his fellow service men. The Army could not stop Charlie’s love for sports; he enjoyed playing baseball while in the service.

Playing by the rules was a natural thing for Charlie to do in life and that carried over to his enjoyment of sports. In high school and college, Charlie played lacrosse. In his college years at University of Maryland, he continued to stay active by playing many sports but his devotion was to lacrosse, during his four year varsity play he was a midfielder and defensemen. He also was something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Charlie was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. Charlie started his long carrier with the Baltimore City School System in 1952. Charlie was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Charlie upheld his standards. While working for Baltimore City Schools Charlie had many other coaching achievements with Loyola College and Essex Community College. During Charlie’s summers he continued his teaching. As the swimming director he taught swimming, diving and lifesaving for 20 yrs at Elkridge County Club, Hunt Valley Golf Club and the Eagle’s nest.

Being generous with his time and energy, Charlie liked to belong to a variety of groups and organizations. He was a vocal leader who enjoyed being a part of things. His desire to uphold traditions and his ability to take charge of any type of project made him a tremendous asset.

Faith was important to Charlie. He held high moral standards and was worried about the moral decay he saw around him. For that reason he held deep spiritual beliefs that he was willing to share. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Phoenix, MD for 18 yrs.

When it came time to travel or take a vacation, Charlie used his scheduling expertise to make sure everyone and everything was ready to go. That also meant that he made certain no single person was overworked in putting the trip together. Charlie had a knack for making sure that everyone who was involved had their specific tasks and that those tasks were completed. Favorite vacations included Charlie, Claire and Chuck visited the Rose Bowl many time to visit family. They also have traveled to many places all over the world.

Charlie was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. Charlie’s favorites were his German Shepherds Wolfus, Baskin, Tangee, Tasha, Carmel, Blazer, and Misty. They were best friends for over many years. His family was rounded out by his two friends Sinbad and Bruiser.

When Charlie’s retirement from Baltimore City Schools finally arrived in 1982, he was well prepared. He used his critical evaluation skills to make sure that every detail had been preplanned and attended to. After retiring from Baltimore City Schools, Charles could not stay still, he worked for Walker Wilson Travel and Four Corners Travel where he helped others travel like he and Claire did. Once he finally retired, his new life involved relocating to Myrtle Beach, SC for the winters. In many ways, Charlie loved retirement. It provided him with the opportunity to catch up with his friends, attend functions and group outings, and tackle new interesting activities.

Charlie passed away on August 31, 2012 at Power Back Rehabilitation, Timonium, MD. He is survived by his wife Claire Wenzel. Claire and Charlie were happily married for 55 years. His son Chuck A. Wenzel and his daughter in-law Kelly M. Wenzel.

The family will receive friends in the Lemmon Funeral Home of Dulaney Valley, Inc., 10 W. Padonia Road (at York Road) Timonium, MD 21093 on Tuesday from 4 to 8 PM. A funeral service will be celebrated in the funeral home on Wednesday, September 5 at 11 AM. Entombment Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.

All who knew him would agree that Charlie was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Charlie Edward Wenzel Jr. did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched were given the chance to become a better person.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed in Mr. Wenzel’s memory to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 3911 Sweet Air Road, Phoenix, MD 21131 or University of Maryland Terrapin Club 2707 Comcast Center, College Park, MD 20742. A guest book is available at www.lemmonfuneralhome.com