Charles W. Wagner III
November 11, 1952 - September 23, 2022
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Charles W. Wagner III
November 11, 1952 - September 23, 2022
Obituary
Charles Walter Wagner lll
Chippewa Township
Charles Walter Wagner lll, 69, of Chippewa Twp., passed away peacefully September 23, 2022, with his loving family by his side.
Chuck was born and lived in Beaver, PA, graduating from Beaver High School in 1971. He was the son of Charles W. Wagner Jr. and Ellen Perrott Wagner of Beaver. He leaves a sister, Tommi, cousins Mark, Sara, Nan, Katie, and Andy, and many friends.
He attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and the University of Colorado in Boulder, graduating in 1976.
After college, he joined his father as a partner in Wagner Chrysler Plymouth of Rochester, PA, founded by his grandfather in 1915. He worked there until his father’s retirement in 1981.
Chuck then moved to Colorado and enjoyed a professional career of over 25 years with Keystone Ski Resort in Summit County, where he was a PSIA Fully Certified Ski Instructor at the Keystone Ski School, working as Coach and Lead Supervisor. In that role, he hired and trained coaches, managed lessons, and had an active role in marketing the ski school. He quicky gained the reputation as the pro’s pro.
Chuck put his heart and soul into the Keystone Ski School and was then named Director of the Mahre Training Center, founded by Olympic medalists and World Cup winners, Steve and Phil Mahre. This was the highest honor an instructor at Keystone could attain. He held this role for 18 years, managing the program for all US and global participants. Chuck also was the long term professional representative and retail liaison for Atomic Skis.
Chuck’s friends and colleagues had a great appreciation and admiration for him. He was always approachable, with an unflappable manner and a caring spirit. Titles never mattered to him; the people did. A tall, lanky guy with terrific athletic abilities, Chuck was one of those people who could do almost any sport—and do it well.
He believed that the real deal was within oneself. While quietly striving to become better, Chuck visualized what he was going to do, then focused and did it. He was a terrific guitar player and loved spending time playing music and performing. He was a strenuous competitor on the basketball court with his friends.
One of his favorite expressions was “OK.” Then a breath. Then “Here we go.” The phrase was always calm and understated. He’d use it to end meetings, work through tough situations or just before dropping into a steep ski run. It would show up as a message when coaching his treasured basketball teams before the kids went onto the court. And later he spoke them as he went into the chemo sessions. “Okay . . . “a breath. “Here we go.”
Chuck was dearly loved, and will be missed immensely by his family and many friends.
A private memorial service was held initially with his immediate family at the Beaver Cemetery, Beaver Pa. A Celebration of Chuck’s Life is planned for a future date.
Memorial gifts may be made in his name to: The Beaver Memorial Library, The Beaver Area Heritage Foundation, Beaver County Humane Society, or Animal Friends, Pittsburgh https://www.thinkingoutsidethecage.org/
6 responses to Charles W. Wagner III
Mike Ewing says:
October 14, 2022
When we were young children, Chuck, who was Chizzy at the time, Mark Miller and I were like the three musketeers. I do not remember how old we were when you moved from Second Street to Beaver Street. What I do remember is the three of us, in the Summer before school was going to start, lying around the big elm tree that was between our houses and making objects out of the clouds as they floated by.I have thought about him and your family often. It was fun that one Chuck sold Chrylser Plymouth in Rochester and my Dad, Chuck, sold Oldsmobiles in Beaver. And they all got along.Great memories.You have my sympathy and hope all is well.
Jan Lopes says:
October 15, 2022
Tommi, my deepest sympathies! I was the bookkeeper for your dad from the late 70s until his retirement (best boss EVER). He would take our son on hikes at the farm with Jay (?). Chiz and I were friends. It was nice to read of his life in Colorado. I remember his wonderful connection with people.
Robert Good says:
October 15, 2022
Deepest sympathies to you and the family. He was the kindest and funniest person when around others and drew you into conversations. He will be deeply missed. Great guitar player! Rob and Danielle Good
BrozichBarbara says:
October 16, 2022
There have been about 5 people in my life who have radiated an elevated kindness of spirit. Chuck was one of those 5 . He openly showed his delight in people – with a benevolence and warm appreciation for them.
Jim Simasko says:
October 20, 2022
I worked with Chuck as an instructor with the Keystone Resort Ski School from 1987 to 1992. He truely had a passion for ski instruction and his passion for his work inspired all of us to provide our students with the best possible experience. He was an approachable person who genuinely cared about those he led. I am sad that he is no longer with us but he will remain in my heart.