Charlie Wolfers

Charlie Wolfers, 95, passed away October 12, 2018 surrounded by family in his home in Canon City.  Born August 1, 1923 in Maryville, MO, he was the son of Fred Robert and Mabelle Marie Burch Wolfers.  He retired to Canon City with his wife Earlene Fulkerson Wolfers in 1987 after a 38-year career in the aerospace business with McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing). 

Charlie spent three years in the Army Air Corps during WWII as a Communications Officer (1943 – 1946).  After completing his BSEE (Electrical Engineering degree) at the University of Missouri, he was employed by McDonnell Aircraft Company in 1949 in St. Louis, MO, married Earlene Fulkerson that same year, and raised his family there.  He spent the first 10 years designing fighter jets, and in 1959 was selected as one of the early design engineers for project Mercury, our country’s first manned spacecraft.  The remainder of his total 38-year career was spent in the aerospace division culminating in a 13-year stint in Houston, TX in support of NASA related contracts awarded to McDonnell Douglas. 

After retirement in 1987, he and Earlene moved to Canon City, CO where he was an active member in various non-profit organizations including:  Friendly Visitors, Habitat for Humanity, AAUW, The University Club, The Fremont/Custer Community Historical Society, Senior Mini College, and the Fremont Community Concert Society.  He served on the boards and held other responsible positions in those organizations. 

Charlie was preceded in his death by his parents, Fred and Mabelle Wolfers and his wife Earlene Wolfers.  He is survived by his son, Dehl Wolfers and his wife Lucinda of Parker, CO, his daughter Nannette Tornblom and her husband Allan of O’Fallon, MO, grandson Neil Tornblom of Atlanta, GA, Granddaughter Ashley Ostermeyer and her husband David of Wright City, MO, and three Great Grandchildren – Tess, Andi, and Finn Ostermeyer. 

A private celebration of life will be held on a future date.  Memorial donations may be made to Fremont Hospice (1439 Main Street, Canon City, 81212), or to the Fremont Campus of Pueblo Community College “The Wolfers” scholarship fund.  Online condolences can be made at www.harwoodfunerals.com.

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