Sept 17, 2003
Charlie became a mail pilot for Bank of America when he retired from Castle Air Force Base and remained with them for 15 years. When he retired, he did some instructing and aircraft sales. He spent his entire life doing what he loved to do. His last moments were doing "touch and goes" at the local airport while checking out two doctors who had purchased a Cessna 421. Thank God they knew how to fly. He bent over as though to adjust the seat, and they were unable to revive him. The cause of death was a ruptured aorta. I gain some comfort in the fact that he died doing what he loved to do.
He was very active in the local West Coast Antique Fly-In and always remarked that the awards never recognized those who made it successful. After his death, I created a "Charlie Blass Memorial Award" which was given each year to the most dedicated volunteer.
Shortly before his death, he had received a reunion notice from your group and was planning to respond. I sent a short note regarding his passing. Charlie did not keep any photos of his military days, nor any military information (other than his DD214...on the basis of which I was able to join the VFW Ladies Auxiliary).
Charlie was 15 years older than I, but he was a "kid" at heart. We had a beautiful marriage, which is why it took so long for me to remarry.
It was really nice to know he is not totally forgotten. If you need any further information, please let me know.
Vicki Blass Samples