

He is survived by his son, Charles Jr.; his daughter, Marisol; son-in-law, Eric; grandson, Witten; and his sisters, Barbara and Helen. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Maria Elena.
Charles was born on January 22, 1945, in Billings, Montana, to Esperanza Cadena and Henry Gorham. In 1969, he proudly joined the U.S. Army and served through the Vietnam War. He married Maria Elena in 1972, and together they built a life filled with love, family, and faith until her passing in 2017.
He will be remembered as a kind and generous man who lit up every room he entered. Charles dedicated his long career to helping others, and in his free time could often be found surrounded by friends, enjoying good company, music, and delicious food. Singing was his passion, and those fortunate enough to hear his voice considered it a blessing. Now, he joins the choirs of angels.
A funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Roy Akers Funeral Home at 10:30am, with a reception to follow. Deacon Lorenzo Valdez will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Charles’ life. Condolences may be shared at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/12487022
The family extends their deepest gratitude to St. David’s Round Rock for the compassionate care they provided in his final days.
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