Charles was born on September 22, 1935 to Fred and Olive Adams Wade in Huntington Park, California. Charles grew up in the state of Washington where he developed a love for the outdoors. At the age of 17, Charles joined the Air Force and spent most of his military career as a heavy equipment operator in the Red Horse Unit. While in the Air Force he served in Vietnam, Greenland, Italy and Korea. His career also provide him the opportunity for travel in Europe. Charles enjoyed fishing, camping, boating and motorcycles. After retiring from the Air Force in 1974, Charles began a career of long haul driving.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents and his only sibling, Freddie Wade. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Gail, and his children, Bill Wade, Charlotte Simmons, Jackie Holmberg, Kim Brown and Terri Shroyer. Additionally, he is survived by eight grand children and three great grandchildren.
