Charles Norman LaVetter

Charles LaVetter, 84, cherished father, husband and grandfather, passed away January 3, 2026, in Phoenix, AZ. Chuck was born November 21, 1941, in Tucson, AZ to the honorable Toby and Mary LaVetter. He was the second of three children. Chuck graduated from Tucson High School (1960), Eastern Arizona College (1963) and University of Arizona (1966). He later attended Northern Arizona University and received his master’s degree in education. Chuck excelled in multiple sports in high school and played college basketball for Eastern Arizona College and University of Arizona. After attaining a bachelor’s degree from University of Arizona in 1966, he became the head baseball coach and assistant men’s basketball coach at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, AZ. He served as the head basketball coach from 1969-2001. His service of 36 years at the college and to the community is appreciated and remembered forever. Winning over 500 games as head coach is a milestone he wouldn’t ever mention yet is a remarkable accomplishment in all of college athletics. He sustained the program to national prominence reaching several national tournaments. During that time, he was married to Phyllis McEuen and together raised their two kids in Thatcher, AZ. From 1993-95, he also served as the head women’s basketball coach also. He received national acclaim in USA Today for guiding both men’s and women’s programs to successful playoff years. His men’s teams won the Arizona Community College Athletic Region I Conference (ACCAC) Championships in 1984, 1985, and 1995. At Eastern Arizona, he also served as the athletic director and dean of the physical education department for many years. Following his successful coaching career, he was inducted in the Pima County (Tucson) Sports Hall of Fame, ACCAC Hall of Fame, and the Eastern Arizona College Hall of Fame. Chuck served in the Graham County Red Cross offering many services throughout his time in the Gila Valley, AZ area. He also served our country in the U.S. Army Reserve. Following his retirement, Chuck participated in a classic car club in Phoenix for several years in which his classic cars won awards.

Chuck’s journey in life centered on his family and those around him. His deep care and love for his family, friends and players was central to his character. He always treasured his time with his kids and grandchildren. Chuck enjoyed attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting/arts events, holidays, and family gatherings even up to his last weeks with them. His kids and grandkids always saw him as a kind, humble, tender-hearted and giving father and grandfather. He is a tremendous example of a loving, caring, giving person who influenced generations of athletes, students, workers, colleagues, and all others around him. He offered himself his entire life to the consideration of all his family and friends. Chuck’s quiet deportment, big smile, and genuine care will always be remembered.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Diane, his two children, David (Gretchen) and Lisa Whitmer (Bret), 11 grandchildren, his sister, Reva Manning (Tucson). His father and mother, Toby and Mary, and his brother Roland preceded him in death.

The family thanks everyone for their love, friendship and support to Chuck during his lifetime. We also extend appreciation for the outpouring of love and kind words during this time. The family kindly requests no flowers.

Celebration services will be held, Friday, January 6, 2026 at 11:00 am at Hansen Mortuary Chapel, 8314 N. 7th St., Phoenix, AZ. A graveside service is scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 12:00 pm at East Lawn Cemetery, 5108 E. Grant Rd., Tucson, AZ. Arrangements were entrusted to Hansen Mortuary Chapel (Phoenix, AZ).