Charles O'Bear

Chuck was born on February 28, 1946 in Santa Rosa, California to parents Charles O’Bear, II and Helen Yielding (formerly Nielsen, O’Bear). He passed away on February 25, 2013 in Roseville with his family members by his side.

Chuck was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Yielding, stepfather, Frank Yielding, stepbrother, Ray Yielding, and stepsister, Diana Yielding

He was the proud father of Charles O’Bear, IV, and twin daughters, Donna Cotter and Debbie Hood. He was also a loving stepfather to Eileen Wilson and Gary Stacy. He loved his grandchildren dearly, and enjoyed attending their activities when he was able.

He is also survived by his father, Charles O’Bear, II, his sister, Andrea Mickelson, his brothers, Mike Dampier, and Bill Yielding, as well as several nieces, nephews and in-laws.

Chuck spent his childhood in Santa Rosa, and moved to Reno in 1973. He ultimately settled in Citrus Heights with his beloved wife, Rita, and they enjoyed many years of travel and companionship – they were truly the love of each other’s lives.

Chuck also loved his career. He was the director of loss prevention for Raleys throughout Northern California and Nevada for 34 years. During that time, he was invaluable to his employer, and they counted on his expertise in matters both professional and personal.

Chuck was a natural leader – he easily took control of any situation, and friends and family valued his expertise in all areas. Chuck’s knowledge led him to serve on several boards of directors over the years, from his Crosswoods Neighborhood Association, to helping establish the Secret Witness Program of Northern Nevada – a prototype for anonymous crime reporting agencies.

Chuck wasn’t all work and no play, though. He lived for his vacations. The travel bug took Chuck and Rita to exotic locales like Belize, Tahiti, and on numerous cruises. But Chuck’s favorite place was Puerto Vallarta. He spent 25 years vacationing on his beloved Bay of Banderas in a Condo just steps from the water. He knew all the best restaurants, and how to get the best deal on souvenirs in the marketplace.

In recent years, one of Chuck’s greatest pleasures was golf. He participated in a group through the Saving Strokes – Rehabilitation Through Golf program, which is funded by the American Stroke Association. He loved his sweets –ice cream and cookies, and few things gave him more pleasure than playing Lotto and buying scratchers. He also loved having lunch several times a week with his caregiver and niece, Carrie Tufts – a young woman who had a very special place in Chuck’s heart.

Chuck had a recent addition to the family, too. A small dachshund mix named Gidget, who loved to cuddle with him on his bed in the sun, or tuck herself behind his shoulder when he was in his favorite chair.

Chuck was well known for his generosity, his kindness, his easy-going manner, and his skills at the barbeque. He volunteered for years at Sacramento’s Jazz Festival, and at Dovewood Court, helping to raise funds and food items for Raleys Food for Families program.

Chuck will be missed dearly by his friends and family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Chuck’s name to the American Stroke Association.