Charles E. “Chuck” Yocum Sr., a former Sumpter resident, died Dec. 12, 2006, at Boise.
At his request, his body was cremated. There will be a memorial service at Sumpter in the spring.
Chuck had endured a long struggle with diabetes, which contributed to the loss of his eyesight.
He was born at Los Angeles, graduated from high school and then served a brief time in the Air National Guard. He started work for a small telecommunications company, Continental Telephone, which eventually became part of General Telephone (GTE). He worked for GTE for 33 years in California and Washington.
He was transferred to Kennewick, Wash., and moved his family to Pasco, Wash., in the late 1970s. He prized his friendships, both professional and personal in the Tri-Cities.
Chuck had been an avid outdoorsman, spending the bulk of his later years at Sumpter where he had a cabin. He was happiest when he was in the mountains.
Having once been a hunting enthusiast, he grew to simply appreciate all the wildlife that would wander onto his property. He was blessed with friendships and associations in Sumpter and Baker City and he treasured his time there.
Chuck was blessed with the close companionship of Sue Williams for the last few years in Boise. They met when he suffered a health setback. Sue provided tremendous support during that time. She enriched his life and helped make tough days more pleasant.
Having a faith in God and Jesus Christ, Chuck expressed his feelings in different ways. He strongly believed in following the Golden Rule and helping friends in need.
Those who knew him will miss his infectious laugh and smile.
“We will all miss the character we came to know and love,” said his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his former wife, Helen Marie Davis, the mother of his four children.
Survivors include his children, Charles E. Yocum Jr., Natalie Rose, Ronald E. Yocum and Randall G. Yocum; six grandchildren; his brother, Bill Yocum; and sisters, Margaret “Sue” Kendall and Mary Boucher.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Idaho Commission for the Blind, 1825 W. Boise, Boise, ID 83706.
Used with permission from: Baker City Herald, Baker City, Oregon, December 19, 2006
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor
