Charles Dresser

Aug. 19, 1917 - Nov. 2, 2018 San Jose

Charles Dresser, age 101, passed away peacefully at home on November 2.

Charlie was born in Willcox, Arizona and spent his childhood in Willcox and Yuma. He moved to California after high school and embarked on a career with the railroad in 1937. He spent time in San Luis Obispo, Monterey and Carmel before settling in San Jose. He ultimately received an esteemed safety award for having no accidents over his 47 year career as a switchman with Southern Pacific Railroad.

Charlie married the love of his life, Annie, in 1954 and they enjoyed 60 years together. They loved attending the symphony, listening to Giants games and traveling yearly to the Southwest for extended vacations. They also enjoyed exploring many other areas of the United States and had the opportunity to travel internationally as well.

Charlie was a family man, first and foremost and was dedicated to raising his sons in a loving, caring and nurturing environment. He possessed a gentle, relaxed personality and had a unique talent in regaling friends and family with humorous stories and colorful anecdotes. He was fair minded, humble and genuine in his interactions with friends, family and strangers alike.

He really enjoyed working with his hands, and had a unique knack for fixing almost anything around the house or on his vehicles. He had a keen insight to address complex mechanical issues, and was a valuable asset to his neighbors and friends who had often asked his advice.

Charlie was a member of the Golden Spikes Railroad Retirees and enjoyed regular gatherings with his colleagues as well as the annual narrow gauge train ride in Davenport.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Matilda and William, as well as his siblings, Lyle, Velma and Merimerle as well as his loving wife, Annie.

Charlie is survived by sons Daniel(Iracy)and Michael(Hollis), grandchildren Noah, Christian, Kyle, Jonas, Oliver, Noble and Julius as well as numerous loving nieces, nephews and friends.

The family expresses its profound gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Sojourn Hospice, Seasons Hospice and Hospice of the Valley, as well as caregivers from the private sector as well as Home Instead Senior Care.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the ASPCA, the Salvation Army or to Martha’s Kitchen.

A gathering of friends and family to celebrate the lives of both Charlie and Annie will take place at Lincoln Glen Church on Saturday December 29 at 11:00 a.m.