Charles C. Woods

Charles Carlton Woods (Chuck), age 86, passed away peacefully in his sleep in Denver, CO on October 27, 2012. He was a short term resident of Holly Heights Nursing Center.

Charles was born on December 6, 1925 in Denver, CO to Helen E. and Charles C. Woods. He grew up during The Great Depression and gained a strong work ethic very early in life. At 7 years old, he worked repairing wire milk crates at a local dairy for half a penny each. By the time he was in seventh grade, Charles had a job (arriving at 5:00am) loading the coal furnace and sweeping out the classrooms of Grant Junior High. He held that job through high school. He graduated early from South High School to attend aircraft mechanic classes at Emily Griffith Opportunity School. Charles volunteered for the Army Air Corps and spent the duration of WWII on Guam as an engine specialist for the B-29 bombers. He remained there through the end of the war. After being honorably discharged, he returned to Denver, CO and married his high school sweetheart, Frances Marie Lavey on August 3, 1946. Following a family tradition dating back to 1872, Charles became a fourth generation piano technician. He remained in that career for 50 years before passing Woods Piano Company on to his son, Joseph. His reputation as a piano tuner and restorer spoke for itself as his clientele was predominately comprised of music teachers and churches. He served as president of the Colorado Chapter of the American Piano Technicians' Guild for many years.

Charles' hobbies included sports car racing. As an avid car guy, he was the owner, crew chief and driver. He was a member of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) for 20 years. An enthusiastic volleyball player, he eventually earned a spot on the Colorado Senior Olympic Team where they competed at the National Level. His team brought home numerous medals including several Gold.

Charles leaves behind a loving wife of 66 years, 7 children and their spouses, 15 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and two half-brothers.

A memorial service will be held on November 2, 2012, 9:00am at Newcomer Funeral Home, 901 S. Sheridan Blvd. in Lakewood, CO. Charles will be buried at Fort Logan National Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at any First Bank to the Charles C. Woods Memorial Fund.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude for all of the love and support they have received during this time.