Final Salute

In the early morning hours of March 15th, 2025, the patriarch of our family, Charles “Chuck” Williams, passed on to his final duty station. He was born January 24, 1938 in Houston, Texas. He was proud of his Louisiana Creole roots, sharing his French language, love of spicy food, and culture to all those around him. Eager to see the world and carve out a life of his own, he joined the Navy in 1955. His travels took him to Okinawa, Japan, where he met and married our beautiful mother, Hiroko. He became a dedicated family man who prioritized his wife and children. Along with their 3 daughters, they traveled extensively with the Navy. He worked in construction with the Navy Seabees, then became a Race Relations Educational Specialist. He was a man of integrity, who had a strong belief in always being prepared, and doing what was right. Some say he was a force to be reckoned with. He had a great sense of humor and his sarcasm was exceptional. The Vietnam War took our father away twice during the 1960’s. It was a turbulent time in our country, and we came to understand the resilience and unity within Navy families. We held tight and persevered through the struggles. Our father was proud to be part of the “Navy Brotherhood” and to serve his country. He forged lifelong relationships amongst his Navy travels. When given the choice to do a 3rd deployment to Vietnam, or be stationed out on a remote island named Adak, Alaska, of course, he chose the remote island. Vast, pristine wilderness was an idealistic environment to raise a family. Subsequently, Adak, Alaska was by far, his favorite duty station. After serving 22 years active duty, he retired in 1977. Not one to sit idle, his hard work ethics motivated him to graduate from Oxnard College, become the Maintenance Manager at Northrop Corp. in Newbury Park, work as one of the first van drivers for Pacific Vehicle Processors, and volunteer as a neighborhood patrol. He believed in keeping his body physically fit, active, and engaged. Although he had a vast array of hobbies, his passion was cooking. He said that he cooked with love, with gumbo and creole dishes as his specialties. He was the “Chief” of our family, always providing guidance and direction. His absence will be deeply heartfelt!

He is survived by his three daughters; Barbara (Bob) Moore, Corine (Tom) Hellmann, Angela (Marvin) Baker. Grandchildren; Chris (Astrid) Campbell, Justin and Alex Campbell, Angela and Stephenie Hayes, Marvin Jr and Malachi Baker. Great-grandchildren; Jamie Herring and Jasmine Campbell. Sisters; Kwajalein White and Barbara Mouton, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his wife of 40 years, Hiroko Williams, brother Alonzo White, and his longtime companion Toshiko Johnson.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Vitas Healthcare/Hospice and to Regency Palms Oxnard for all the love, care and support they provided. Words cannot express our gratitude.

Funeral mass will be held April 12, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 3175 Telegraph Rd., Ventura. Private burial will follow at Santa Clara Catholic Cemetery, Oxnard.