Charles Eugene Tontz
was born on July 28, 1923, in Portland, Oregon, to James G. Tontz and Esther P. (Gutensohn) Tontz.
Chuck graduated from Benson High School, the University of Portland (BS) and the University of Oregon (MSEd).
He was proud of his service in the US Navy (1942 – 1945); he was a quartermaster in the S. Pacific. Active in Midget Auto Racing and in Sprint Car racing after the war (1949 – 1963), he won the Oregon Championship (Midget) in 1963. Trophies would adorn shelves for the rest of his life.
Chuck began his teaching career in Estacada (1955 – 1957), and then moved to Jefferson High School (1958 – 1966).
It was there that he met his wife, Judy Gladding.
They were married in 1966, and moved with daughter Julianne to Pohnpei, Micronesia, to teach from 1968 to 1970. It was here that daughter Melinda was born.
The family returned to Portland, and Chuck finished his education career at Madison High School as a school counselor (1971– 1986).
During his years in Portland, Chuck was active in the Rose City Yacht Club and became a wedding photographer with Photography by Fudge, a weekend job to support his sailing habit.
Sailing and boats were central to family life at this time.
Never one to sit still after retirement, Chuck and Judy moved to Warrenton. Chuck’s focus shifted to antique cars, and he was a proud and active member of the Mercedes Club of America, Oregon Division, and the Lower Columbia Classics of Astoria.
Water still called, however, and he joined the
Coast Guard Auxiliary, where spent many hours helping
however
he could.
Chuck will be remembered for his everlasting and often irreverent sense of humor and love of family.
His parents, his sisters Bea Ingalls, Ruth Miller, Jean Ryan, and brother Robert preceded Chuck in death. He is survived by his wife Judy, daughters Julianne (Thayne) Vickstrom, and Melinda Clark, grandsons Ian and Kyle Vickstrom, and granddaughter Malayna Clark.
A memorial celebration will be held Saturday, April 5, 2014, at 12 noon at the Lewis and Clark Bible Church, 35082 Seppa Road, Astoria, Oregon.
