Charles Hales

Charles (Chuck) P. Hales, 83, of Minnetrista, passed away March 12, 2020. 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Charles was born in Spencer, Iowa, March 30, 1936 to Charles P. and  Geneva Hales. His father passed away from appendicitis days after he was born. It was a challenge in life to help his mother raise himself and four siblings. From that set of circumstances, he seemed to build a legacy.

Depite weighing barely over 100 pounds, Chuck fought his way into the Golden Gloves boxing community. After a successful career that included Upper Midwest flyweight champion, Chuck retired and  remained involved as a referee. He later became the Executive Director of the Upper Midwest boxing region for 28 years. He left a lasting impact on youth through scholarships and will be remembered as part of the Boxing Hall of Fame when he was inducted in 2016.

Chuck built Hales Machine Tool which became a successful CNC machining business, which has endured today.

Chuck knew that laughter and smiles were the true secret to success. His interests included fishing, hunting, golfing, horseback riding, cards and traveling. His favorite locations included the Wyoming ranch, the family’s lakeside cabin, winter getaways to Arizona and his home in Minnetrista.

Chuck was respected, compassionate, generous, wise and honest. He had a way with words, sense of humor and endless stories to tell. He cherished his family and his relationship with God. 

Chuck is survived by his wife, Carol, of 63 years;  three sons Dan (Mary), Tim (Kate) and Randy; three daughters, Pam (Randy) Mortenson, Sue (Chris) Hallaren, Julie (Dave) Monchamp; 20 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; one brother, Ken (Donna) Hales; one sister, Iona Smith and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one infant daughter, Patty; two brothers and one sister.

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