May 29, 1931 — December 6, 2018

Vashon lost an important pillar of our community when Charles Heurtley passed away on December 6. He experienced a cerebral hemorrhage in his sleep and died peacefully at Harborview Medical Center the next day, surrounded by caring friends and neighbors.

Charles grew up in Chappaqua, New York, completed a two-year course in general mechanics at the NY State Agricultural and Technical Institute, and then joined the Air Force in 1952. He spent two years during the Korean War at Sidi Slamane Air Force Base in French Morocco, reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. Visiting Washington State while on leave, Charles was enchanted by the grandeur of the Pacific Northwest, and enrolled in the Engineering Program at the University of Washington after completing his service.

Charles lived a full life. He was a Boeing engineer for 40 years, proud of his work in electronic design and project management positions. A Vashon resident since 1976, he never lost his passion for the Northwest. He was an enthusiastic skier, mountaineer, sailor, and hiker. He taught skiing for 10 years, was a member of the Seattle Sail and Power Squadron for 28 years, a lifetime member of the Vashon Yacht Club, and a committed leader for the Seattle Mountaineers where he taught climbing lessons and chaired multiple committees.

Charles was practically an institution among his North End neighborhood of Point Vashon. He was committed to his daily walks, always had a smile, and dispensed advice in the spirit of a true engineer. He is survived by his sister Helen Berkeley (Pittsford, NY), brother John Heurtley (Rochester, NY), sister-in-law Janette Heurtley (Sea Cliff , NY) and five nieces and nephews.

Please join us for a remembrance of Charles on May 18. A military burial flag ceremony will start at 11:00am at Vashon Cemetery (7205 Vashon Highway SW) and will be followed by a celebration of his life at the Vashon Lodges (17205 Vashon Highway SW) starting at 12pm.