Charles Abernethy, known to his family and friends as Chuck, went to be with his Lord and Savior on October 25, 2017, in Kirkland, WA, at the age of 81.
A Minnesota native, Chuck grew up in Tracy and Marshall, MN, graduating from Marshall High School in 1954 before joining the Navy at the age of 18. While in the Navy, Chuck earned his Associates of Arts degree at San Antonio College and his Certificate of Aviation Maintenance from Everett Community College. During his distinguished 21-year career in naval aviation, which included a 6-month stint as a flight engineer in the Vietnam War, Chuck rose to the rank of E-9 and served as the Command Master Chief Petty Officer at Whidbey Naval Air Station in Oak Harbor, WA. Although he enjoyed his naval life and was recommended for the position of commander of the Medium Attack Tactical Electronic Warfare Wing of the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Whidbey Naval Air Station (COMMATVAQWINGPAC), Chuck chose to retire to spend more time with his family. After his retirement, Chuck worked as an A & P mechanic (Air Frame & Powerplant) and taught classes for high school students at the Sno-Isle Tech Skills Center in Everett, WA.
Chuck loved the Pacific Northwest and took great pleasure in the views and activities that the mountains and water provided. After retirement he settled on Whidbey Island, where he lived for about 42 years.
Known for his kindness and sense of humor, Chuck deeply loved his family (immediate and extended) and was loved by many. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Peg; his children, Lyn Campbell (Doug), Margaret Ann Salazar (Pete), Brian Abernethy, David Abernethy (Ganjana), and Phil Abernethy (Carrie); his sister Mary Jo Bersagel (Dave); and 16 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren (with 2 more on the way).
Chuck was preceded in death by his sons Tim Abernethy (Stephanie) and Chris Abernethy (Dana), as well as his parents Eugene and JoAnn Abernethy.
The family held a small private gathering to remember their beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother; there will be no public service.