Charles Harold Wedel

CHARLES HAROLD "CHARLIE" WEDEL, 97, passed away peacefully in his home in Calistoga surrounded by family. Charlie was born in Petaluma on February 18, 1919 to Fred and Marie Wedel, and graduated from Petaluma High School with the class of 1938. He is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Aletha Baxman Wedel, his brother Paul Wedel and friend Barbara Volkerts. Before entering the army in 1944, Charlie was a commercial fisherman with his brother Paul at Bodega Bay. Upon returning from World War II, Charles began his butchering career at Caughfield Market, later to move on to Ashermans' Market and retiring in 1981 from Safeway. He often spoke of starting his butchering apprenticeship making $7.50 per week and then becoming a journeyman and making $21. He thought he had died and gone to heaven. In 1998, Charles and his wife moved to Calistoga to be nearer their family. He is survived by his two daughters, Helene Smith (Bob) and Linda St. Clair Hidalgo (Manuel), both of Calistoga; grandchildren, Kevin Smith (Kim), Kathleen St. Clair, Scott Smith (Cynthia), Karen Jones (Mike), Leann Smith, Rob St. Clair (Christina) and Kelly Denicke (Nick); thirteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; and many nieces and nephews. Charles was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed many years with his friends at the Circle D Hunting Club. At the age of 93, Charlie drove himself to Oregon for his annual fishing trip. The family would like to thank Debra Viggeno and Nancy Fernandez of Napa Valley Hospice Collaborative Care and care givers, Kimbra and Evie. At Charlie's request, there will be a private celebration of life. Donations may be made to Napa Valley Hospice or the charity of your choice.