Charles Donald Israel

Charles Donald Israel was born October 28, 1933, to Nelson and Mary Israel in Altus, Oklahoma, the eldest of four children. As his father was a mechanic for road crews, they moved across the states, settling in Orange Cove, California. Charles went to school there and graduated from Reedley High School in 1952. Having relatives in Yreka, he came to town to work as a parts runner at Maginnis Chevrolet. Chuck, as he was known by then, moved to Adelaide Harris’ home where many young people got a start and a “home” feeling. During this time, Chuck double dated with Dale Rohl his roommate when he met his wife to be, Laura Silva. Just before getting married he went to work at Erickson and James. Chuck and Laura were married on June 7, 1953, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Months later, while expecting their first child, the Army chose him, and after boot camp he was stationed in Ulm, Germany, working on the commander’s motor pool cars after having been requested to do so. By the time he returned, his daughter, Debra, was 13 months old. The family moved to Medford early in 1958 where Chuck leased a 76 gas station. A short time later, they moved back to Yreka to work again at Erickson and James. He later worked at Northern Credit collection agency for 28 years as the Business Manager and Lead Collector. He then moved on to Peter’s Truck Lines and then to Fairchild Medical Center as the Business Office Manager until he retired in 1999. Chuck enjoyed camping, hunting, fly fishing and especially woodworking. He was at his best in working with and for his children. He was an artist with paper, wood, and glass, and was a friend to many. He lovingly made numerous handcrafted wood pieces for family and friends including pieces he donated to charities for fundraisers. He built an ark for Fairchild Medical Center that is still on display in the hospital lobby. He was a scout leader in addition to being a baseball coach with Tom Ralston. He worked for many years as a volunteer fireman. Chuck and Laura had many fun times dancing at Caper Cutters, a dance club they belonged to during the early years of their marriage. Chuck was a devoted blood donor, where he received a pin for his record high gallons of blood donations. He believed in good government and voting each year, and was looking forward to voting in the current election. He ran for City Council in April 1972, which he was proud of, and was brave to do when so many do not. Chuck also helped other campaigns by being their treasurer. Chuck passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, October 24, 2012. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. His wife, Laura, and all children survive him: Debbie, Carole and her husband, Paul Freeman, Sandra, Paul, and George. Additional survivors include three grandchildren: Patritia Israel, David Parker, Russell McMaster, and many special foster children. Surviving siblings include his sister Pat, sister Sharon and brother-in-law Bill, and brother Norman, along with many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. There will be a Celebration of Life memorial next summer. Donations can be made to one’s choice, Yreka High School Art Department or St. Jude Memorial.

Charles Donald Israel

October 28, 1933 - October 24, 2012