January 21, 1948 ~ April 21, 2018
Known to many as Charlie and, to his loved ones, Grandpa Good Looking. Charlie was the father of Genevieve Lucas, Kimberly Barkman, and Charles Polston, Jr. Grandfather of Samuel, James, Brian, Kylie, Conrad and Reese. Charlie is survived by his sister Charlene Cunningham, his partner Kathie Ratto, and multiple family members and friends. These people held his heart.
This Downey High graduate was voted “Biggest Flirt” his senior year”¦an apt description to the beginning of his adult life. Charlie was always ready with a witty remark or a compliment for the ladies”¦ he really was larger than life!
After graduating, Charlie enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served and was honorably discharged. The years he served paved the pathway for his future endeavors and provided countless stories he loved sharing! From bar fights to distinguishable acts, he was extremely proud of his military service and all the character building and patriotic sentiments it impressed upon his soul.
Charlie began his law enforcement career as a Stanislaus County Deputy Sheriff. He was a tenacious officer having had an action packed career. Charlie delivered babies, got in knife fights, shoot outs, and high speed chases. “To Protect and Serve” was a motto he lived his life by. Charlie consistently protected the weak, provided guidance to those who sought him out (and some that didn’t), and was fiercely loyal to those he called family and friends.
Charlie was a private business owner having owned a gun shop, a private investigations business, and a professional boxing business. Each business was a reflection of him and his vast interests. He was proud of his accomplishments and loved reminiscing about his experiences.
The time spent in Nevada as a professional boxing promoter came to a halt after a bad car accident. Having broken his back, Charlie and his family returned to their home town of Turlock. While recovering from his injuries Charlie started law school, a broken back wasn’t going to slow him down! The recuperation time allowed him to further his education and ultimately find his life’s work.
Charlie spent the rest of his working years, and retired from, The Law Office of Robert S. Lewis. He dedicated years of service to fighting for the rights of the disabled. The office staff was like a second family, they were held in high esteem and deep affection.
Charlie was a person who never stood idle. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing and traveling. In his retirement, he committed himself to excellence as a Freemason. He spent countless hours perfecting his craft, mentoring others, and honoring tradition. Freemasonry was his passion, his pride, and his brethren.
There’s so much more to say, but in Charlie’s words “¦ “Always remember to KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid).
Service will be held Friday, May 4, 2018 at 3:00p.m. at The Modesto Masonic Lodge 800 Rose Avenue Modesto, 95355. The family welcomes those who knew and loved him, to join them in paying their respects and celebrating his beautiful life!
Memories and condolences can be shared at www.AllenMortuary.com.
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Debra, Deann & Denise Williams says
May 3, 2018 at 9:19 pmVery sorry to hear of Charlie’s passing. He and our dad, Wes, had so many stories to tell. Remembering him dressing up and playing Santa for us when we were little. Grateful for the love, friendship and support he gave dad when he was sick and the eulogy he gave. Rest In Peace.
Steve Schmidt says
May 1, 2018 at 3:54 pmI first met Charlie when I was teaching a course on vocational rehabilitation for UC Davis. I always enjoyed his personality and his dedication to protect the injured and disabled. We worked together on many cases in the workers compensation system.I have great respect for Charlie until this day. May God bless his soul.
Kelly Speckens Little says
April 29, 2018 at 9:43 pmGenevieve, Kimberly and Charlie,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad’s passing, he was way too young and always full of energy. What you wrote in his obituary would have made him so proud of all of you.
Charlie was always kind but tell it like it is person. He was someone you could trust and be there to help. He was funny too.. Yup, full of stories!
Loved the part about Grandpa Good Looking, and they say women are vain!
Your dad set a good example about going after your dreams and not letting obstacles get in the way, nor age. He lead a full life with 3 beautiful children and grandchildren as his legacy.
It had been a long, long time since I’d seen your dad but I will remember him with fondness.
Your family has always had special place in my heart.
Jim Hapgood says
April 28, 2018 at 9:27 pmWas shocked to see Charlie’s obit. I always appreciated the way he would extend himself to greet me at the lodge. He had a greet personality and I loved him as Brethen
Kimberly says
April 28, 2018 at 5:26 amMy wonderful sister wrote this, she did a beautiful job !