Charles William Wetzel

Funeral Services will be held at 2 PM Thursday April 17, 2025, at Hampton Vaughan Crestview Funeral Home in Wichita Falls, TX.

Charles was born November 28, 1949 in Wichita Falls, TX to Charles Derwood and Elizabeth Paulann (Lockhart) Wetzel. He was the oldest of four children. During his childhood, Charles enjoyed playing sports, being a Boy Scout, and spending time with his loving grandparents, Granny and Papo. Charles developed a love and talent for music during his adolescence, which led to an early career in the band business. He was a member of The Knaves and Sound of Pride, bands that allowed for him to showcase his guitar and vocal talents, travel the country, and accumulate cherished stories to share for years beyond.

Charles eventually stepped away from the music world to earn his Bachelor of Accounting from Midwestern State University. He went on to become a Certified Public Accountant and spent the majority of his life working in the Oil & Natural Gas business. Charles earned great success in business and in friendship, working over 50 years in the industry and spending the last 22 years of his career as Chief Financial Officer for CrownQuest Operating in Midland, TX. Rightfully so, he was very proud of his business accomplishments and gained great fulfillment from his involvement in a variety of business ventures.

Charles had many hobbies, including playing guitar, listening to music, playing golf (especially with his son and brothers), enjoying fine wine and cigars, and collecting cars and guitars. He was an avid reader, enjoyed the study of economics, and loved an opportunity to share his knowledge with others.

Above all else, Charles was the most beloved father and grandfather. He spent much of his time supporting his kids in their interests, careers, and business ventures, and swelling with pride for their accomplishments. He was a trusted advisor, inspiring constitution and confidence in so many, regardless of their circumstance. He was a joyful, playful grandfather who delighted in his grandchildren. He was wise and witty. He was kind and generous. He was thoughtful and consistent. He was a musician and a storyteller. His voice and arms were a place of comfort and peace for his children. He was a man that no words will ever do justice to describe.

Charles, Pokey, Dad, Daddy, Papa, Mr. Wetzel. He was a lot of things to a lot of people. He was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Survivors include his 4 children: Kristina (Wetzel) Ozee, Charles William Wetzel II and wife, Shawna, Megan (Wetzel) Weinzierl and husband, Todd, and Lauren Wetzel and husband, Daniel Farnan; 13 grandchildren: David and Davin Ozee, Cooper Ojeda, Shambre Sneed, Wesley Hambrook, Dennis and Gerad Warren, Nathaniel, Arthur and Ellorah Weinzierl, and Beckett, Judson, and Hollis Farnan; 12 great-grandchildren; 2 brothers: Kevin Drury and Danny Drury; and 2 ex-wives: Frances Miller and Patty Wetzel. Charles is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, stepfather, Cleave Drury, and brother, Stephen Wetzel.