Charles Leroy Poole Obituary (2025)

Charles Leroy Poole, known as Butch, Chuck, and Poppy to friends and family, age 82, passed away on February 23, 2025, in Yakima, Washington. He was born on December 28, 1942, in Yakima, to his parents Jesse Lane Poole and Emma Hazel Harris. He spent his childhood in Naches, Washington, alongside his brothers Kenny, Sonny, and Richard, forming lifelong bonds and memories. Charles was a proud graduate of Naches High School and later attended Perry Technical Institute. He went on to complete his apprenticeship under the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for the Electrical Industry and earned a Certificate of Completion of Apprenticeship from the Washington State Apprenticeship and Training Council. His career included working at Naches Sawmill, Hoydar Buck Electrician Company, and later at Yakima Valley Community College, where he worked for 27 years before retiring. Charles honorably served our country in the U.S. Army after enlisting in 1964, demonstrating dedication and excellence throughout his military career. He was later honorably discharged after earning both the Good Conduct Medal and the National Service Medal in recognition of his commitment and service. He also achieved the title of Expert in Rifle. On August 4, 1967, Charles married the love of his life, Nelda Lawrence, in Winnemucca, Nevada. Their marriage was built on love, laughter, and a shared sense of adventure. Together, they created a life filled with cherished memories, family traditions, and unwavering support for one another. Charles had many passions and hobbies that brought him joy. A skilled poker player, he loved the thrill of the game and the camaraderie that came with it. He had a deep love for the mountains and would often take long drives, sometimes traveling over 100 miles just to have breakfast in a scenic spot. He enjoyed baseball. Sundays were reserved for football, especially when he could watch with Wade, cheering on his beloved Seattle Seahawks as a proud member of the 12th Man. Above all, Charles was a devoted family man. His family always came first, and he was known for his unwavering support and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed. His warm heart made him a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is loved by his wife, Nelda Poole, parents, Jesse and Emma Poole, brothers, Kenny, Sonny, and Richard Poole, son, Ron (Jaime) Poole, daughter, Lori (Wade) Ruff, grandchildren, Justin (Nicole), Crystal (Russell), and Brandon, great-grandchildren, Braiden (Elise), Blake (Mary Rose), Candice, Chelsea, Mia, and Max, and great-great-granddaughter, Aria, with a new addition expected in August 2025. As well as many nieces and nephews, along with many dear friends. A celebration of his life will be held on March 2, 2025, at 2:30pm, at Brookside Funeral Home in Moxee with a reception directly following the service. His legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family and friends will live on forever in our hearts. Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.