Charles William Emmel III

Charles William Emmel III, age 86 of Centerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Wednesday, July 8th, 2026. If you knew Charlie, you knew a guy whose glass was always half full. He was the kind of person who firmly believed in leaving people better off than when he first met them, and he usually did it with a big smile on his face.

Born on October 23, 1939, in Scranton, PA to Charles Jr. and Marie (Burns) Emmel, Charlie was always in motion. When he pitched in the Little League World Series, his dad gave him the nickname “Speed”—a name that perfectly captured how he tackled life. He graduated from Scranton Central High School while playing drums in a band and even had the incredible experience of playing in the Scranton Philharmonic alongside his dad. His lifelong love of jazz and drumming earned him a spot at the U.S. Naval School of Music, and he proudly served his country playing in the Navy band stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Charlie never did anything halfway; his commitment to any goal was always 120%. While in Hawaii, he was a bodybuilder and earned a black belt in Karate. Later in life, he spent 17 years deeply involved in the intense Schutzhund training of German Shepherds, loved flying radio-controlled airplanes and helicopters, and volunteered his time for years at the SimTrainer indoor shooting range. He poured that same unstoppable grit into his professional life, dedicating over 40 years to a successful sales career with United Gilsonite Laboratories (UGL) and working alongside his wife sharing his entrepreneurial spirit through Amway for many years.

He is survived by his wonderful, sweet wife of 66 years, Ann (Katz) Emmel, and his sister, Joyce Geroulo. He leaves behind his children: Charlie (Leanna), Bill (Janet), Michele (Chris), and Jeff (and his late wife Cindy). He was a proud grandfather to 8 grandchildren—Matt, Christine, Brad, Ali, Jacob, Nick, Eric, and Connor—and 3 great-grandchildren: Brooklyn, Charlotte, and Liam. He was also a much-loved brother-in-law, uncle, and great-uncle.

More than his accomplishments, Charlie will be remembered for his heart and his hustle. He was genuinely passionate about helping others chase their dreams. He instilled a deep sense of focus, positivity, and a true "can-do" attitude in his kids and just about everyone he crossed paths with. We will miss him dearly. But we find great comfort in knowing he is finally pain-free from Alzheimer’s, kicking back with a Manhattan, reuniting with his dad and extended family, and listening to some great jazz while he celebrates eternal life in heaven.

We love you, and we’ll take it from here. Cheers!

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association

Visitation will be Friday, July 31, 2026 from 9:00 to 11:00 am at Tobias Funeral Home, 5471 Far Hills Ave. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 pm at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, 9579 Yankee Road, Springboro, 45066. Online condolences may be sent to: www.Tobiasfuneralhome.com