Charles J Vais

Born December 21, 1927, my dad had 83 wonderful years. He lived a life longer than many expected because of the never ending care of his wife, Jeanette, and his sheer will to live. Thank You Mom!

Many words describe my dad: Commitment, Family, Service, Education, Hard Work, Reading, Fishing, Travel and the love of good food.

He was born in Howells, Nebraska. He had three sisters and one brother. At the age of sixteen he left home to join the Army and served in World War II. Additionally, he was a Lieutenant in the Korean War where he was awarded the Purple Heart.

Upon his return from the Korean War, he attended Creighton University earning his bachelor’s degree and attending one year of Law School. He met my mom in Omaha where she was attending nursing school.

They were married September 12, 1952 and would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary this September. Together they shared the gift of 3 children: their late son, Mike (his wife Cindi), the oldest of the three, their middle daughter, Janet (her husband, Jerry), and their youngest daughter, Marilyn (her husband, Tim). They wanted us to have as many experiences as possible…so as a family, we skied, swam competitively, fished, camped and always had an annual family vacation.

My dad’s true pride and joy was his grandchildren and great grandson. He had a special and individual relationship with each one. They all counted on their Grandpa and Grandma attending all of their events, whether sports, plays, piano recitals, or school functions. He volunteered at their schools reading to their classes, attended field trips and helped with homework. All of his grandchildren, graduated from or will graduate (only two more years James) from Arvada West High School. He had some favorite sayings he shared with them on a regular basis: “Keep your nose to the Grindstone” and “If you can, you must”. I am sure as you hear from his grandchildren you will enjoy their fond memories and the impact their Grandpa had on their lives. Tony, Katie, Danny, Sarah, Jess, Neil, James, Missy and Sean, he loved each of you for the fine individuals you are. Cooper, his great grandson, was the “Apple of His Eye”!! They had a special way of communicating including finger fives and hide and seek. Cooper you gave him something to smile about and he was proud you would carry his name forward.

As the Vice President of Intermountain Network, he spent his career selling radio advertising to 70 Radio Stations in the Rocky Mountain West. His job afforded him the opportunity to travel to New York City on a regular basis where he enjoyed wonderful restaurants. He would always come home with a story to tell about the best restaurant he visited and the great ethnic food. During his time with Intermountain Network, he received multiple awards from the Colorado Broadcasting Association.

My dad had many hobbies. His most favorite was fishing, especially fly fishing. He waded the streams and approached his casting with perfection and intensity. If there was a fish to be caught, he could catch it. An active volunteer with Trout Unlimited he worked fundraisers and events to help maintain the integrity of the sport. I remember fondly my times with my dad following him up and down the rivers, The Frying Pan, Roaring Fork and Waterton Canyon. We especially enjoyed the fishing expeditions in Canada. All of my parents’ grandchildren had the chance to fish with Grandpa and Grandma.

A voracious reader, he, for all intents and purposes was self educated. Up until one week before his passing he was reading 5 books at any given time. My parents were considered regulars at the Lakewood Public Library. He was able to talk about political issues, places around the world, and most any topic with conviction and confidence. He also had very definite opinions about The Denver Broncos, as one of the first season ticket holders.

He loved the adventures of traveling. My parents took some wonderful vacations together, Hong Kong, England, Scotland, Canada, Alaska and other states. Besides New York City, one of his favorite cities was San Francisco. He loved the wharf and all the restaurants to choose from. My husband and I vacationed with my parents to Hawaii along with multiple California trips. Both of our children have wonderful memories of making sand castles on the beach.

As my dad’s life was coming to an end, he worked to maintain control of the situation and himself. He was provided compassionate and professional care from his In-home Hospice Care Providers, Collier Hospice and his Elderlink friends. He always had a snipit of information to share with them, like:

“Korean food had dog in it”-they assured him what he was eating wasn’t from Korea

“I am not going to vote Republican-they can’t have my vote”

“Save looking at my toes for last, I know that is your favorite”

Dad, you leave us with fond and lasting memories. We all love you.

With love,

Janet

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Denver West Trout Unlimited 385 Flora Way Golden, CO 80401.