Charles Chuck "Chuck" Mason

Charles "Chuck" Mason was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

He was the son of Sara and Charles Mason. Chuck grew up in Pennsylvania.

Chuck was raised with two siblings. He had an older sister and a younger brother, Marie and Vincent. Chuck was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

A typical teenager, Chuck had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Alexander Hamilton High School in 1948. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers.

Chuck enjoyed his college years, which may have been a challenge with all of the academics, responsibilities, and the sudden freedom that accompanied them, but Chuck was able to manage the balancing act. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Santa Monica Junior College.

Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Chuck enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were John Becker and Ron Pulone.

On February 6, 1954 Chuck exchanged wedding vows with Mary Elizabeth Ratcliff at St. Augustine Catholic Church of Culver City, California. Empathic and loyal, Chuck was committed to making his new family happy.

Chuck worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Chuck was blessed with five children, two sons, Tim and David and three daughters, Paula, Kathleen and Suzie. Another blessing for Chuck was the gift of eight grandchildren, Megan, Kellen, Emma, Amanda, Mackenzie, Madison, Nicolouis and Charles.

Fortunately, Chuck enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Chuck worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was independent newspaper agent. He was employed for 25 years by the Los Angeles Times. Chuck always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

Chuck was an Army Veteran. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

Chuck found pleasure in sports. Recreational sports included bowling and golf. Chuck was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were basketball, baseball and football.

Chuck was a man who took pride in upholding his beliefs. Politically, Chuck was a supporter of the Republican Party.

Chuck’s faith was important to him. He was a member of St. Catherine of Sienna for 35 years.

Chuck enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included traveling (including cruising and road trips) and houseboating with family friends.

Chuck was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Molly, a mixed breed dog.

When Chuck’s retirement finally arrived in 1996, he was well prepared. His new life involved relocating to Cherry Valley, California. In retirement, he found new pleasure in golf, meeting new friends and always keeping family and old friends close. Even in retirement, Chuck continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Chuck was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

Chuck passed away on November 13, 2010 at At home. Chuck suffered many medical problems all of which contributed to his death. He is survived by his wife, Betty (Mary), children and grand children, and a sister and brother. Funeral Mass was held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 19, 2010 at Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, 1234 Palm Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223 with a Vigil held on Thursday, November 18, 2010 at 7:00 pm, Weaver Mortuary at 1177 Beaumont Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223.

Simply stated, Chuck was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Chuck leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Charles "Chuck" Mason.

Arrangements under the direction of Weaver Mortuary, Beaumont, CA.