Charles Thomas Wilkinson

Charles Thomas Wilkinson, known affectionately as "Gus," passed away on December 9, 2024, in Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 92. Born in Mansfield, Ohio, Charles led a life marked by dedication, service, and the joy of family, friends, travel, movies, books, food and music.

Charles graduated from Lexington High School before furthering his education at Ashland College, the University of Maryland, and Ball State University. His commitment to education was paralleled by his dedication to the United States Air Force, where he served honorably for over 25 years as a fighter pilot and Safety Officer. During his military service, "Gus" was awarded many service medals and recorded 116 combat missions during the Vietnam War. Following his distinguished military career, Charles continued to serve the public as a civil servant for the State of Washington for 19 years in various capacities including Safety Program Manager. Despite this illustrious work career, Charles will be most remembered and revered by family and friends as a kind and gentle soul who mentored many, and created a life-long legacy of always stepping up to help others. He was that proverbial "nice guy" and was known to share his life belief that we all just need to treat others as we would want to be treated — the Golden Rule was his moral compass.

Beyond his professional life, Charles was a committed member of Kiwanis International for 44 years, deeply involved in community service. His love for music and traveling enriched his life and those around him, bringing joy and a sense of adventure to his family and friends. During his military career, “Gus” and family were stationed in Germany on two occasions, affording he and Shirley the ability to travel throughout Europe exploring many countries, which was a valuable part of exposing a young family to different cultures.

Charles is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Shirley; three children, Gail (Rhonda Buckner) Wilkinson, Sandy Dougall, and Scott (Pattie) Wilkinson; as well as numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his father Ralph A. Wilkinson, his mother Susan Wilkinson Duffey, sister Charlotte Markosian, brothers Ronald Wilkinson and David Wilkinson, and son-in-law Darrell Dougall.

A service to honor Charles's life and legacy will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington, on January 21, 2025, at 1:00 pm, with full military honors to celebrate his dedicated service to the nation. The Neptune Society of Tacoma, Washington, is assisting the family during this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial may be sent to the charity of your choice. Charles's life was a testament to his values of honesty, hard work, and community service, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.