Charles Thomas Stetson, Sr.

Charles Thomas Stetson Sr., age 82, of Henderson, Nevada, passed away on Sunday, March 21, 2021. He was born in Bristow, Oklahoma as one of ten children to his parents, Pearl Virginia (Sikes) and Harry Monroe Stetson on June 15, 1938. At the age of two, the family relocated to Nevada where he would grow up. As a child, Charles enjoyed spending his days with his best friend and brother Bruce, playing around in the desert, and swimming in the old Las Vegas Creek and the Twin Lakes. Later in life, he would spend his days with his closest friends Larry and Terry. He attended the old 5th Street School, and graduated from Las Vegas High School.

In 1956, Charles enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served honorably for four years active duty along with his brother Bruce, and an additional 2 years in the Naval Reserves. Through his hard work and dedication to his country, he achieved the rank of Petty Officer First Class.

Following his service, Charles would return to his home town of Las Vegas, to settle back into civilian life. In 1964, Charles started his own family when he met and married his sweetheart, Santa; at a private civil wedding in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together the couple would be blessed with two children.

Charles supported his family, by working in the gaming industry for a number of years, before moving on to being a plumber for the City of Las Vegas. He was hardworking and dedicated to his trade. Charles was employed for over 25 years with the city until he retired in 1997.

Charles loved his family. He was a devoted father; who had a rough exterior; but was a generous, kind, and tender - like a teddy bear on the inside. He also had a funny side that his family appreciated; but his personality was a little dry and off-color at times. When his family needed him he was always there. He devoted himself to caring for his aging mother until her passing in 2010. There is nothing that Charles would not do for his family, friends or his neighbors; they thought the world of him.

Charles loved the outdoors, and spending time with his family. He enjoyed reading, collecting everything, and walking the neighborhood with his four legged pals; Zeus and Caesar. He also enjoyed fishing, riding Sea-Doos, and taking road trips to New Mexico, Texas, and Washington to visit with family.

All who knew him would agree that Charles 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. Charles Thomas Stetson, Sr. did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person. He will truly be missed.

Charles was preceded in death by his father, Harry Monroe Stetson; mother, Pearl Virginia (Sikes) Stetson; and siblings: Jerry Philip Stetson, Delores Jean Wagner, Robert Bruce Stetson, Virginia Pearl Stetson, Joe Stetson. He is survived by son, Charles Thomas Stetson, Jr. (Rose); daughter, Donna Marie Stetson Mejia (Jorge); siblings: Sue Stetson Packham, Mary Stetson Hazelwood, Carla Stetson Allen (Kenneth), and Mona Stetson Jasper; nephew: Robbie Stetson (Lisa), and his grandchildren: Patrick Frawert (Liz) and Victoria Rose (David).

A celebration of life for Charles will be held Saturday, April 17, 2021 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015. Charles will be honored for his military service immediately following.

Due to Covid-19, all government restrictions will be in place, and all guests in attendance will be required to wear a mask.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmboulderhighway.com for the Stetson family.