August 15, 1932 - November 4, 2023
Charles Stanley Salzenstein, 91, of Stockton, California, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at Hospice House of San Joaquin. Chuck was born on August 15, 1932, in Peoria, Illinois, to Charles and Jane Salzenstein. He is survived by his daughters, Cynthia Wight and Laura Duarte; his grandchildren, Joshua Wight, Megan Harris, Nicholas Duarte, Katelin Wight, Gavin Harris, Lauren Fields and Holland Counts; and his great-grandchildren, Landon Wight, Claire Wight, Evelyn Wight, Jolie Grady and Ella Fields. Chuck was predeceased by his parents; his late wife of 47 years, Claire Salzenstein; second wife, Elaine Salzenstein of 17 years; his sister, Sue Dietsch; and daughter, Suzanne Salzenstein-Counts.
Chuck attended Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, and joined the United States Navy, where he served as an Air Traffic Controller stationed in Atlantic City, New Jersey. After his Naval career and honorable discharge, Chuck returned to Peoria, Illinois, where he co-owned the most notable and famous Schradski’s Company. In 1970, Chuck and Claire moved their family to Stockton, California, where they became proud Stocktonians and owners of Hickory Farms of Ohio, leaving an indelible mark on the local Stockton community. He had 47 years of sobriety and was active in Alcoholics Anonymous, where he began his last career before retirement as a counselor for ARC of Stockton.
Outside of his career, Chuck was a devoted Christian, which was the cornerstone of his life, guiding him through joy and sorrow. He also was an avid golfer and had an affinity of snow-skiing, where he was instrumental in developing and encouraging the sport in all three of his daughters. Chuck also had a recreational pilot’s license, several sports cars that he thoroughly enjoyed, and was passionate about gardening, focusing on Bonsais.
After Claire’s passing, Chuck moved to the greater Portland, Oregon area, where he met his second wife. After she passed away in 2020, Chuck returned to Stockton, California, to live with his daughter, Laura (Luis) Duarte.
A memorial service will occur at Multnomah Falls, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of San Joquin in Chuck’s honor.
As we bid farewell to Chuck, may his soul find eternal peace, and may the memories of his love and kindness provide solace to those who mourn his passing. He will be forever remembered as our “Pappy” and deeply missed.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Salzenstein family.
