Charles Richard Compton

Charles Richard “Chuck” Compton passed away suddenly at his home in Sun City, Arizona on August 18, 2026. Chuck was born on January 9, 1953 in Rantoul, Illinois and relocated with his family to Phoenix, Arizona as a young child in 1962. He is survived by his children Christopher Compton (Connie – Brandon, and Cristen); Andrea Saunders (Yaki – Elijah (Kamea) and Enzo); and Clayton Compton (Miranda – Jatyn, Kai, and Olivia). He is also survived by his bothers Virgil, Dennis (Sheri), and Kenneth, as well as his sisters Dixie Deskins (Ray), and Elizabeth. Chuck was preceded in death by his mother and father (Geneva and Charles), Brother, Loren, and Chuck’s son Charles “Charlie” Compton. Chuck attended Maryvale High School in Phoenix, where he was a standout varsity football player. He also competed in the Rodeo Cowboys Association (RCA) circuit for several years. His preferences were riding bulls and bareback broncs, as well as roping. In 1980, Chuck became a Firefighter in the Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) and was promoted to Fire Engineer just a few years later. He maintained his certification as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) throughout his career. While a member of the fire department, he built a reputation for being among the best Engineers in the department. He was highly respected and mentored many others with their desires to become firefighters and advance in their careers. Throughout his three plus decades with the PFD, he preferred being assigned to busy companies – spending most of his career at fire stations 1 and 10 in central Phoenix. His older brother, Dennis, and his sons Chris and Clay, built separate careers with the PFD, making all four of them proud members of the fire service. Chuck retired in December 2012. Being a master plumber was another achievement that Chuck was well-known for in the Phoenix Metro Area. He was both meticulous and fast yet was among the minority of plumbers who could do the underground, rough, and the interior finish. He handled all three phases of the plumbing on many residential jobs. In addition to having a strong work ethic, Chuck loved his rather large family and his circle of friends dearly. However, later in his life, he made it clear that he sincerely loved all the others, however, he was especially attached to (and proud of) his grandchildren. Being a big, strong, and gentle man – with a deep voice and kind heart and soul, will no doubt end up being Chuck’s legacy. His lessons will live on within everyone he shared his skills, knowledge, and love with. A Memorial Service will be held at Christ's Church of the Valley (CCV) - Peoria, 7007 W Happy Valley Rd, Peoria, AZ 85383, on August 25, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am.