Charlie N. Wells

Charlie Wells was born in Bromide OK on May 21, 1925 as a proud member of the Chickasaw Nation. Shortly after birth, his family moved to Elgin OK where Charlie spent his school years, until eagerly enlisting into the US Army in 1943. His formative years were spent hunting, fishing, playing sports and working labor intensive jobs to help support his depression-era family of 12.

A naturally gifted athlete, Charlie was 17 when he attracted the attention of St Louis Cardinals baseball scouts who pleaded with him to accept their deferment offer instead of becoming a soldier. Charlie adamantly declined and enlisted to fight for our freedoms.

Earning Sergeant stripes by the age of 19, Charlie was awarded a Bronze Star for rescuing a downed reconnaissance pilot 2 miles behind enemy lines. He suffered two bullet wounds fighting on Philippine soil shortly before war's end. These serious wounds denied him the chance of a baseball career.

After the war Charlie discovered the beauty of northwestern Oregon. It was there he met and married Sara Hensel. However, due to serious asthma issues, Charlie was compelled to move his wife and children to Fresno, Ca in 1962.

Although Charlie found time to enjoy playing cards, dominoes, bowling, hunting and fishing with friends, he dedicated his life to supporting his family. Through his labor, intelligence and exceptional work ethic, Charlie became a highly respected automotive clutch builder. He was renowned throughout the USA for the quality of his product.

Charlie and Sara, who preceded him in death, raised five children, Michael, Jim (deceased), Don, Ron and Cheryl. The family grew to include grand children Laura Wells; Melissa Lyons; Tracy Sample; Christopher (deceased), Brandon and Marcus Wells; Richard and Erin Miranda. Great-grandchildren include Sydney Lyons; Alexandria and Belle Bohlman; Charlie Sample; Jackson and Lauren Wells; Clarissa Ramirez. Sadly, Charlie will miss the birth of his most recent great-grand son, Mario Loya.

Charlie will be remembered as a charming, respected, fun-loving man who was quick to laugh and a generous, dedicated father who was beloved by his Daughters-in-law, Cynthia(Medina)Wells; Mary(Lopez)Wells; and son-in-law, Ernie Miranda.

Visitation will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home on Thursday, July 30, 2015 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

A Funeral Service will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home on Friday, July 31, 2015 at 12:30 p.m. Interment to follow at Fresno Memorial Gardens.

The Wells family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Kendal Seymore. Ms Seymore went above and beyond her "care giver" role by becoming Charlie's trustworthy friend. Charlie was blessed to have her in his life during his final months.

Condolences may be offered at whitehurstsullivan.com

Remembrances may be made to any Veteran organization the giver feels most appropriate.