Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
April 03, 1953 - April 25, 2026 Charles "Chuck" Lee Staley, Jr. 73, passed away on April 25, 2026, in Brenda, Arizona. Born on April 3, 1953, Chuck’s father was in the military so he grew up in Africa, El Paso, Texas, and Anchorage, Alaska and graduated from East High School. He dedicated his career to Sea-Land at the port of Anchorage, where he worked as a parts expediter. Chuck was a man of many passions. He found joy in woodworking and clock making, loved fishing and hunting, and cherished time spent walking his dog or reading Louis L'Amour books. He was happiest near the water—whether fly fishing at a lake, paddling a canoe, or navigating the sea in his Boston Whaler. Chuck also loved connecting with others, always ready with a listening ear and a kind word. He was deeply devoted to his family and is survived by his beloved wife Linda; daughters Grace (Jamie) Stout and Rachel (Josh) Lutz; son Adam (Melinda) Staley; and grandchildren Alison, Dominick, Gillian, Camden, and Caitlin. He was predeceased by his son Matthew; sister Malissa McCaslin; and parents Charles Lee Staley and Denna Fay Bloomer Staley. Chuck was a man of faith who worshipped at St. John Lutheran Church in Palmer, Alaska, and Zion Lutheran Church in Blythe, California. His kindness and love left an indelible mark on all who knew him. A celebration of life will be held on May 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, located at 440 E Elmwood Ave, Palmer, Alaska. In honor of Chuck’s memory, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. May his legacy of love and kindness bring comfort to those who knew him.