Charles William Brueckman

Charles (Charley, Charlie, Chuck) William Brueckman of Charlotte, N.C. passed away on July 20,2026 of natural causes at the age of 90. Charles "Chuck" was born on November 23, 1935, in Mckees Rocks, P.A. to Pearl E. and Charles A. Brueckman. From an early age, he displayed remarkable athletic talent, determination, and stature. After graduating from Stowe High School (where he played baseball and football) with a "B" average, Chuck's athletic ability earned him a couple of tryouts with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Although professional baseball was within reach, he chose instead to attend the University of Pittsburgh on a four-year athletic scholarship, where he made his mark on the football field. A standout player for the Pitt Panthers Chuck excelled as both an offensive center and defensive linebacker. He earned varsity letters in football in 1955, 1956, and 1957, and his leadership led to his selection as team co-captain during his senior season in 1957. That same year, he received All American Honors, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. Chuck's collegiate career was highlighted by appearances in some of the Nation's most prestigious Bowl games. These included The Sugar Bowl 1955, The Gator Bowl 1956, East-West Shrine Game in San Francisco, The Hula Bowl in Hawaii, and the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. Chuck graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1958 with a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree. That same year, he was selected in the ninth round of the NFL draft by the San Francisco 49ers before being traded to the Washington Redskins. He was also commissioned as a second Lieutenant in the United States Army after completing Officer Candidate School in 1958. Chuck served on active duty from February through August 1958, followed by ten years in the Army reserve, serving until his honorable discharge in 1968. In 1959, Chuck was traded from the Redskins to the New York Giants where he attended training camp and played six pre-season games. He later signed with the Los Angeles Chargers during the inaugural season of the American Football League (AFL). As the team's starting middle linebacker and defensive captain, he was responsible for calling the defensive signals. His professional football career came to an end following a shoulder injury. Drawing upon his business education, Chuck built a successful career in sales. He worked for Ashland Oil Company from 1961-70, Mobil Oil Company in Richmond from 1970-74, Ridge Homes in Charlotte, N.C. From 1974-83, and he held various sales jobs at various companies from 1984 until his retirement. On April 17,1992 Chuck married his second wife and college sweetheart, Judy Brueckman. They began a new chapter where they built a house and settled in the University area of Charlotte. Chuck retired in 1993 and enjoyed golfing, reading, crossword puzzles, and traveling the country and abroad with his wife,Judy.

He is predeceased by his mother Pearl E.Brueckman, father Charles A. Brueckman, Wife Judith Reynolds, sister Joanne , and daughter Deborah . He is survived by his brother Jim Brueckman and children, daughter Pamela B, Morgan, daughter Caulette B. Gilfoil, step daughter Karol Tart, step daughter Mary Romano, step son Mark Kiefer, and step son Rod Kiefer, along with 8 step grandchildren, and 3 step great grandchildren.

No services are planned at this time.