Charles Gartrell Zander

Charlie, as he was known to friends and family, was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, but moved to Houston at a young age with his family, where he grew up and built his life.

Charlie graduated from Robert E Lee high school in 1986 before furthering his education at Stephen F. Austin University. He graduated with degrees in Marketing and Journalism.

In his life after college he was a salesman, a small business owner, a Landman, and a school teacher. His passions were the underprivileged kids he taught in the Alief School District and his music. He had a collection of beautiful guitars and would often play them for his students.

Charlie is survived by his two sons, Cole and Chase; their mother, Shelly; his parents, Steve and Anna; his brothers and their wives, Matthew and Kim, Chris and Kim, and Michael and Christi; eight nieces and nephews; and a large group of extended family and friends.

He was a selfless and compassionate man who was warm and kind to everyone he met. He had a magnetic personality. Charlie never met a stranger.

A celebration of Charlie's life is to be conducted at two o'clock in the afternoon on Saturday, the 12th of June, in the Jasek Chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed and may be accessed by selecting the "Join Livestream" icon in the service information block below.

Immediately following, all are invited to greet the family during a reception in the adjacent grand foyer.

In lieu of customary remembrances, contributions to The Lighthouse of Houston are greatly appreciated.