He was a most special person. To us and to many, many others.
Fishing at their summer cabin, and football, were Chuck's life's passions, second only to his family.
Chuck was a caring, thoughtful, and devoted husband to my husband's daughter, Bonnie. High school sweethearts, Bonnie and Chuck settled in North Branch, Minnesota, where Chuck taught high school and was their football coach.
His football career began in high school and continued on through college at Gustavus Adolphus college in St. Peter, Minnesota, where he played defensive tackle and helped the Gusties win two M.I.A.C. Championships.
After graduating, he accepted an invitation to try out for the Dallas Cowboys. Not reaching the NFL, Chuck returned home and became the linebackers coach at Gustavus before becoming the head High School Football Coach at Gibbon, Minnesota.
He later accepted the Head Football Coach position at North Branch High School, where he coached until the early 1980's. In the mid-1990's, Chuck returned to coach the offensive line at North Branch, coaching while his sons, Matt and Chris, played on the team.
Chris followed in his Dad's footsteps, attending Gustavus and earning a starting spot on the offensive line his Junior year. His Senior year, he earned All-Conference honors while being named a Captain by his teammates.
Chris Holsworth and his very proud Grandpa
Bonnie went on to become an elementary teacher and teaches first grade in North Branch, earning her Master's degree last year.
Daughter, Heidi, also teaches in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she lives with her husband, Chris Tertipes. Son, Matt, is in the Army reserves and works for UPS in Texas.
A few weeks ago, Gustavus honored Chuck's accomplishments by designating funds given in memory of Chuck for a special football recruiting room.
Both Chuck and Chris are featured on this "wall of fame."
The room and a plaque were dedicated in a special ceremony held at Gustavus before their Homecoming game was played. My husband and his family were there, along wth Bonnie, Chris, and girlfriend Kristin.
We are all so proud of this wonderful and gentle man we lost way too soon. Our family is less without him.
Chris and Heidi Tertipes, Bonnie, Matt, and Chris Holsworth
But we're always remembering Chuck. We all miss him. And we'll never forget him.
Special thanks to Chris Holsworth for writing assistance and photos.
