Charles Wilford Pettis

Charles Wilford Pettis

Was called to his Lord on Sunday June 2nd, 2019; being diabetic he had complications after the amputation of his lower leg. The surgery itself was successful but during recovery, and after winning a game of pinochle against his best friend, he fell asleep and never woke up.

Charlie was born June 27, 1946 in LaCross Wisconsin to Wilford & Ethel Pettis. In June of 1952, at 6 years old, his family moved to Alaska. Along with his siblings, Eldon, Delmar, Eunice, Lyle, and Elaine, the Pettis’ lived and developed the area around Johns Road in Anchorage. At a young age Charlie married his first wife Linda Smith and they had two children, Wyatt and Gidget. He was then called upon by his country to serve in Vietnam but when he returned he was no longer the family man he left being. Charlie had many adventures, he was happy and friendly, and like his father, could start a conversation with just about anyone. He never met a stranger. He was an avid storyteller, guitar player, and pool shark. He loved gambling and often you could find him at a poker table winning. He was happiest in the seat of any piece of heavy equipment moving dirt like a little kid. He always had a deal of some kind going, was about to win the lottery, strike gold, and was a millionaire in his mind many times over. Charlie eventually remarried when he found the love of his life Delores “Dee” Chance. They were happily married 22 years until she passed away from breast cancer in 2010. It was with her that he finally found peace with God, his faith, and his salvation.

Charlie is survived by his brother Delmar & Gladys Pettis and his daughter Gidget Trainor. Grandkids Emily & Dustin, Thomas & Sage, Steven, Keven, Kayla, Brandi, Brett, Tia, and Kay. Great grandkids Owen, Beau, Charlie, Harrison, Shylo, Aurora, and Sergio. He also has many many nieces & nephews.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents Wilford & Ethel Pettis, son Wyatt, brothers Eldon & Pam Pettis and Lyle Pettis, and sisters Eunice Emswiler and Elaine Alward-Dunlap, and his beloved Dee Pettis whom he will be laid to rest with.

Please join the family at his graveside honor guard service on July 20th, 2019 at 1pm Wasilla Aurora Cemetery 1096 Wasilla Fishhook Road. Pastor Kevin Shumway from Hilltop Assembly of God officiating.

Immediately following will be a celebration of life potluck at American Legion Post 15 at 1550 Mystic Circle off Outer Springer Loop in Palmer.

Arrangements are with Legacy Heritage Chapel and flowers can be sent to them at 1015 S. Check Street, Wasilla, AK 99654.