Charles "Chuck" William Waddle

Charles “Chuck” W. Waddle, 77, passed away on January 30, 2026, in Milwaukie, Oregon. He was born on May 21, 1948, in Sweet Home, Oregon, to Everett Waddle and Ila Darling, and was raised in Portland, Oregon.

Chuck proudly enlisted in the United States Navy in 1965 and served his country in Vietnam as a swift boat gunner. Chuck was deeply proud of his military service and the sacrifices made by those who served alongside him.

Following his time in the Navy, Chuck spent his working life as a millwright, welder, and boilermaker, contributing his skills in shipyards and industrial settings. He was known for his strong work ethic, mechanical know-how, and willingness to lend a hand whenever someone needed help.

Chuck found joy in the simple, meaningful things in life—helping friends with projects, playing poker, crawdad fishing with his kids, camping, and hunting. He had a ready smile, a steady presence, and a phrase many will forever associate with him: “Load ’em up, move ’em out, Rawhide!”

Above all, Chuck is remembered for his service, his sacrifice, and his devotion to his family.

He is survived by his son, Eric Waddle; daughters, Kathie McDaniel, Megan Gorecki, and Candice Goldsby; and fourteen beloved grandchildren.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026, in Willamette National Cemetery. A reception will follow in Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home.

Chuck’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the country he proudly served.