Charles Mathews

Charles Mathews Obituary

Charles Mathews, born June 2, 1948, in Bartow, Florida to Arlene (Fitch) Mathews and Charles A. Mathews passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026 after a life defined by resilience, determination, and quiet strength.

Born with osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), Charlie faced significant physical challenges and endured more than one hundred bone fractures throughout his life. Despite these hardships, he approached life with perseverance and courage. During his early school years in Kirkland, Washington, he learned from home with the help of an intercom system allowing him to remain connected with his teachers and classmates.

Charlie graduated from Kirkland High School in 1968. With the support and kindness of his teachers and friends, he was able to attend classes in person whenever possible—often on crutches or in a wheelchair. Those who knew him remember not only his determination, but also the care and friendships that surrounded him.

Some of Charlie’s most treasured memories were made during summers in Gordon, Nebraska, with his grandparents, Alfred and Hazel Fitch at the Spectacle ranch. There he learned to hunt and fish—simple pleasures that became lifelong passions. He especially loved time spent fishing with his parents in Sebring, Florida, as well as with his grandfather, Alfred Fitch, and his uncle, Wayne Coon in Nebraska. These moments brought him great joy.

Charlie had a special love for animals, particularly his house cats, and showed quiet kindness in caring for feral cats.

He spent time at Pioneer Manor in Hay Springs, Nebraska, where he was treated with genuine care and compassion by the staff, who became like extended family to him.

Charlie will be remembered for his strength, his gentle spirit, and his ability to find joy in life’s simple moments. His life, though marked by challenges, was also filled with meaningful connections, perseverance, and quiet courage.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arlene and Charles A. Mathews.

No funeral services will be held. In honor of his love for animals and the outdoors, memorial donations may be made to a local animal shelter.