Charles "Charlie" C. Vanderhider

The son of Amelia and Charles Allan Vanderhider, Charles was born on the 2nd of September, 1919, in Needville, Texas, and spent his childhood years living in Rosenberg and San Antonio. Following graduation from Massey Business College in Houston in 1939, Charles started his distinguished career in industrial sales with Peden Iron & Steel Co., where he worked for 33 years. Charles was known as the “problem solver” and “educator” at work, gaining life-long friends through his dedicated work ethic. Early in his career, Charles served as Chief Petty Officer & Yeoman in the United States Navy during World War II from 1941 through 1946 and was stationed in San Diego and ultimately, Hawaii. Charles was very proud to conclude his career working for Hughes Tool Co. as a Buyer of Industrial Tools and Supplies, where he retired at the age of 65. Charles, known by friends and family as “Charlie”, was a life member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, as well as a member of Alhambra.

Charlie was a very active person throughout his life and will long be remembered for his compassion for others, his genuine kindness, and love of outdoor activities. He had many interests including fishing, gardening, reading and relaxing at the river house. He was a physically active person well into his late 80’s, always working hard in his vegetable garden and taking his daily 2-mile walks. He particularly loved his time with friends and family, and always gently encouraged loved ones in their life journey. Those who knew Charlie, loved Charlie, and often described him as “strong”. Whether they were discussing his physical attributes, his character, or his religious beliefs, all were apt descriptions.

Charlie is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Elsie Vanderhider, his parents, and his grandson, Matthew. Charlie was a life-long devout Roman Catholic who loved life and people, and was known as a quiet leader who led by example. With Elsie, he was a founding parishioner of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in 1962, and also served as an extraordinary minister and usher. Charlie became a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, in commitment to his Catholic faith. He remained an active church member attending weekly services and STreaMliners senior functions with Elsie and his parish friends. Charlie is survived by his loving family: daughters, Colleen Lastovica and her husband Raymond, Marilyn Vanderhider; sons, Jim Vanderhider and his wife Lynne, John Vanderhider; five grandchildren; sister, Aileen Vilim; and numerous much loved nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation and Vigil service will be held at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home at 6700 Ferris St. on Sunday, 7/22, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with the Vigil Service beginning at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, 7/23, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church located at 10330 Hillcroft St., followed by a reception at the church. The Rite of Committal will then follow 1:30 p.m. at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery located at 6900 Lawndale Avenue. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Charlie Vanderhider to St. Dominic Village (713.741.8722) and St. Thomas More Church God’s First Capital Campaign (713.729.0221).

Vanderhider