Charlie May

Charlie May, a proud Colorado native born on August 28th, 1944; left this world on November 30th, 2023 surrounded by his girls (his wife and three daughters) and with lots of love and support from family; especially his baby sister Sharon. Charlie, the man with a love for cookies, coffee, peanut M&Ms, and the great outdoors; was not just a Coloradan by birth but a true Coloradan in spirit.

An outdoorsman at heart, Charlie felt most at home in Colorado's mountains. Whether he was hunting in the woods, camping beneath the stars in the Rocky Mountains, snowmobiling or skiing through fresh powder, driving fast cars and motorcycles, casting a fishing line in Colorado waters, or racing behind a boat on his water skis, he was in his element. He reveled in the beauty of his home state, lived a Colorado life to the fullest, and found solace in the simplicity of a campfire under the open sky. He passed this love for the Colorado outdoors on to his daughters.

In addition to his love for nature, Charlie was also a hard working painting contractor. With commitment to quality work and attention to detail, he earned the respect of many and most customers turned into life long friends. Charlie took great pride in leaving his mark on the homes and businesses he worked on. His dedication to his craft was emblematic of the care and love he put into everything he did. And like his love for the outdoors, he passed on this work ethic to his daughters: all three worked for him and learned to paint.

Charlie's easygoing, patient, and laid-back demeanor made him a cherished friend and a beloved family member. His infectious laughter and catch phrases like "Gads" and "Jeepers" could brighten even the darkest of days, and his presence was like a warm embrace. He had a way of turning every moment into a memorable experience , whether it was a special road trip, a sing along to Patsy Cline, a ride to dance class, or a lesson such as how to change a car tire. One of the family's favorite times was a surprise trip to Disney World when the May girls were teenagers - they lost count of the number of times Dad wanted to see the Bugs Life show and still love seeing his safari hat full of Disney World pins he collected on the trip.

Charlie was a devoted family man. He was the son of Charles and Dorothy May, the big brother to Steve and baby sister, Sharon. He was the loving husband of Debbie, who stood by his side through thick and thin. Charlie and Debbie shared a life together of close to 50 years. What a testament to a lifelong loving commitment to one another and the family they created and that continues on. They shared many memories together, including many trips to many places. The traveling bug caught Charlie from his childhood and carried throughout his marriage and raising his children. Together, Charlie and Debbie  raised three strong willed daughters who inherited his zest for life and adventure. They will always love and cherish stories he told, stories told about him (especially by their amazing Aunt Sharon), and pictures of the boy who grew up to be not just their dad, but their hero. His legacy lives on in them, a testament to the love and laughter he brought into their lives. All three daughters adored him.

While we mourn the loss of Charlie, let us also celebrate the incredible life he led. His laughter, his love for the outdoors, his hard work and dedication, and his knack for turning ordinary moments into cherished memories will forever remain in our hearts. In true Charlie fashion, let us remember him with an old country song, a cup of coffee, a pocket full of M&M's, and a view of Colorado's landscapes; for that's how he would want us to honor his memory.

As we say goodbye to our dear friend, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and Coloradan, let us take comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the laughter and love he shared with each of us. Charlie may be gone, but his joyous and uplifting presence will continue to brighten our lives forever. A wave of the cowboy hat to him as he rides off into the sunset.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity that supports outdoor conservation or animal care, in honor of his love for Colorado and his enjoyment of the animal shows he loved to watch on TV. Suggestions include Colorado Horse Rescue, Colorado Wild Incorporated, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, or any other charity of your choice that you believe Charlie would appreciate.

A celebration of Charlie's life will be held on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, 2:00pm at Horan & McConaty Funeral Home (5303 E. County Line Road, Centennial CO 80122)

Please join us in honoring the memory of this incredible man who touched our lives in so many unforgettable ways.