Charles Chaz and Charlie Michael Laux

Charles Michael Laux, the son of Charles and Mary Laux, lived in Ramona California for the first seven years of his life. He then moved to San Bernardino where he was raised by his Aunt Mary Ann and Uncle Bill. At the age of 16, the family relocated to San Diego.

Charles always liked to be in the background doing his own thing and was content to entertain himself. Charles played hard, was fearless and was never pushy when it came to games and other activities. Rather, he was able to enjoy the pure fun these activities provided. In just about everything he did as a child, Charles was intent on pleasing others. He participated in both hockey and football as a teenager. Charles was always a sports fan who was also interested in the statistical data and facts behind sports. In his spare time he liked watching "WWF" wrestling, football and hockey.

Most folks would say that Charles was shy until they got to know him. Those who were privileged to know him well knew that he was a solid, good friend with a beautiful smile and a heart of gold --- a gentle giant. He was concerned about how those around him felt, and he always seemed to uncover the positive side of people. He could relate to others and had the ability to see their point of view. Charles kept the friends that he made ---- once a friend, always a friend.

Charles liked to experience things first hand, instead of simply learning about them. A methodical and patient person, Charles preferred to set aside uninterrupted time to pursue his hobbies. His favorite hobbies were reading, watching movies and listening to music. Most people thought the rap artist Tupac was Charles' favorite but the family knew that jazz saxophonist Kenny G was really at the top of his list. Charles was content to sit quietly alone, enjoying his hobbies and could often be found reading books by his favorite author, Stephen King, among other scary books.

Charles was taken from us far too soon on January 28, 2012 in San Diego, California. It is most important to celebrate the life of this wonderful person rather than focus on the tragedy of his death. He is survived by his aunt, Mary Ann Castellano, sisters, Kim Ponce and Kelly Lowe, brother, Chris Ponce and cousins Jessica, Cameron and Justin Adams. He is preceded in death by both parents and his uncle Bill Adams.

It is said that some people can’t see the forest for the trees. Charles was able to focus on each individual tree, tending to its needs, thus making the forest stronger as a whole. Charles was a trustworthy, pragmatic and sympathetic person, the kind of man to whom everyone was drawn. He was thorough and practical. You always knew where you stood with Charles.

We will honor your memory forever. We love and miss you Charlieboy.