Mr. Charles "Chuck" Piluso

Chuck was born on June 27, 1913 in Portland, Oregon and was the son of Joseph and Concetta (Celestiso) Piluso. He attended Benson High School and graduated from Franklin High School in 1931. Chuck later enlisted in the United States Army serving his country as a Tec 3 during WWII. He received an honorable discharge for his service.

On October 12, 1946, Chuck married Althea Hutchinson and they made their home in Portland. Chuck built the family home from the ground up and it was there that the couple raised their 4 children. Chuck worked as a Longshoreman for Brady-Hamilton Steveadore Company for over 30 years. He was a hard worker and a dedicated family man always providing for his family first. This became very evident when Chuck became Althea's caregiver during her 6 year battle with breast cancer. Althea preceded Chuck in death in 1986.

Chuck’s affiliations were something to truly be proud of. First of all, he was a devoted member of the Paesano Club located in Gresham and was named man of the year twice, by the club. He was proud of his Italian Heritage and volunteered much of his time to the Paesano Club’s Spaghetti Dinners and fundraisers. He liked to fundraise and was able to do it successfully in his own special way, which included selling the raffle tickets for the various Paesano Club events. Chuck was a member of the Elks; where he was man of the year, The Eagles Lodge Aerie 4 of Tigard, the Pacific Coast Pensioners, where he was honored for outstanding service, The American Legion Milwaukie Post and was a long time member of the International Longshoremen Warehouseman Union, of which he joined back in 1959. Chuck was also a member of the St. Clare Catholic Church in Portland.

Besides being involved with the community, Chuck also made time for his own favorite pastimes. He enjoyed vegetable gardening, dancing, singing and playing cards. He could also fix anything. He was charismatic and outgoing, a true joy to be around at any social gathering. His greatest love in life however was his family. He was supportive, nurturing and hardworking; a true role model for his children and granddaughter and was truly an influential part of their lives.

Chuck is survived by his son, Earl Piluso of Portland, daughters, Joellen Piluso of Beaverton, Carla Piluso of Gresham and Julie Piluso of Gresham and brother, Peter Piluso of Portland along with one granddaughter, Kate Piluso of Gresham and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. His wife Althea, brothers, Carlo and Ernie and sisters, Rose Tosti and Jennie Piluso all preceded him in death.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 2:30 pm at The Paesano Club with the recitation of the Rosary just prior to the service at 2:00 pm. Visitation will be on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 from 1:00 pm -6:00 pm with the Recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 pm at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home in Gresham, OR. The Committal Service with Military Honors will be on Friday, August 6, 2010 at 9:30 am at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland. Contributions may be made to the Komen Foundation of Oregon 1500 SW 1st Avenue, Suite 270, Portland, OR 97201. Bateman Carroll Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.