Charles Reese Bert

Chuck, surrounded by his family, entered into his final rest on November 20, 2018. He was born on November 24, 1929 to Reese and Lydia Bert in Mineola, New York (Long Island). At the age of 6, Chuck moved with his family to Berkeley, Ca. Shortly thereafter he and the family moved to Modesto, Ca. In 1944, the entire family relocated to American Ave in Modesto.

He married his high school best friend Barbara Lyon December 1, 1950 and together they made their permanent residence the American Ave family ranch in 1955. Together they had three children: Tom, Tami, and Ted. Chuck and Barbara were married 64 years until Barbara’s passing at home in 2014.

Chuck graduated from Modesto High School in 1947 and while obtaining his Bachelors from Stanislaus State he was also raising his family. Chuck held multiple jobs: car salesman, a teacher for Oakdale Junior High from 1953 – 1963. He became a full-time almond rancher in 1963. Chuck was extremely active in all phases of Almond ranching including hulling not only for himself but other ranchers in the

area. In addition, he was an active member of the School Board in the Stanislaus School District. He was a volunteer for the Salida Fire Department for 31 years, rising to the rank of Division Chief.

Chuck enjoyed extensive travel with his wife and family including destinations to: Mexico, Germany, Pismo beach, Alaska, and cruises to both the Caribbean and Hawaii. They belonged to the Old Fisherman’s Camper Club and traveled throughout the Western United States, Mexico, Texas, and Canada. In later years he also enjoyed Accordion music and joined the Accordion Club.

Chuck and his wife Barbara had an extraordinary large extended family made up of neighbors and friends. He was a mentor and an extended surrogate father to many young adults in the community. He had amazing wisdom, listening skills and the ability to guide by letting others make their own decisions based on a genuine, thoughtful and thorough discussion.

Chuck is preceded in death by his son Ted and his wife Barbara. He is survived by his brother, Ralph (Sandy) of Placerville, CA and sister, Vera of Reno, NV, his son,Tom (Karlene) Bert of Modesto, CA, daughter Tami (Sonny) Crim of Oakdale, CA, daughter-in-law Quana of Spokane, WA and by 5 grandsons, and 10 great grandchildren.

Donations may be made to the Ted Bert Science Scholarship payable to CSUS Foundation, 10306 Dixon Rd., Oakdale, CA 95361 or charity of your choice. A viewing will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park Dec. 4th from 4-8. A memorial service will be Dec. 5th at 3:00 at the Centenary United Methodist Church in Modesto.