CHARLES SELL Obituary

Chuck passed from this life, Tuesday, December 14, while peacefully napping in his favorite chair. Chuck was born May 19, 1921, in Alda, Nebraska, but was reared in Madison, Wisconsin. He was the son of Allan and Anna Sell, who preceded him in death, as well as his brother Arthur and sister Jean. Chuck was an American hero, having served in the Pacific as a United States Marine fighter pilot in World War II. He flew the Corsair in many air battles in defense of the nation he loved so well, and he was again called to serve his nation during the Korean War, where he again distinguished himself. He was a highly decorated veteran in both wars. After World War II, Chuck returned to Madison, Wisconsin, to pursue his education, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Chuck moved to Los Angeles, California, in 1950, where he worked for North American Aviation / Rockwell International. He worked for Rockwell for almost 40 years, and retired from that company as the Vice President of Customer Relations, Los Angeles Division. In his work with Rockwell he coordinated defense systems with some of the most important leaders of that time, from congressmen, senators, Vice Presidents and Presidents. His name was known worldwide in the aerospace industry. Chuck served as the president of the National Defense Industrial Association in Los Angeles, was a life member of the Navy League, member of the Air Force Association, the Winter's Night Club in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and was also a major planner and participant each year in the Paris and Farnborough Air Shows. Chuck truly had the Midas touch; everything he became involved in instantly was improved. He was sought out for his advice by organizations and people on a myriad of topics and issues. And, he never ignored anyone or any topic. He earned the deepest respect and sincere appreciation of everyone he came in contact with. He was the classic epitome of a “gentleman�. People always wanted to be around him. It didn't matter the setting, every time he entered the room people instantly gravitated to his side to be near him. He mentored people just by being himself; others emulated him and modeled their personalities after him. In retired life Chuck owned and operated a very large machine shop in the Los Angeles area, a very fitting job for a man who could build anything with his hands. Chuck continued building and designing heirloom furniture as a hobby after his retirement which graced his home, as well as other members of his family. His last entrepreneurial endeavor was the owner, with Joan, of the Oasis Salon and Day Spa in Falcon, Colorado. Chuck lost his wife, Peggy, of nearly 40 years to heart disease in 1985. He married Joan Leslie Bannard, on July 2, 1988. Theirs was a true love affair, of nearly 25 years, and he was never shy about telling you how much he loved Joan and their life together, although he would often have to choke back tears. Chuck and Joan moved to Colorado Springs in 1992, where he continued to be a leader in aerospace and military circles. He served as the Treasurer of the State of Colorado Air Force Association, faithfully attending the state, regional and national meetings for many years, and always willing to volunteer his time. Joan, a prominent aerospace leader in Colorado Springs, as well as on the national level, was never without Chuck on her arm at many military symposia and events. Chuck will be remembered, not just as a great patriot, but also as a wonderful father, grandfather, great-grandfather and husband. He had three daughters: Toni Marie Watkins and her husband, John, of Lake Nacimiento, California, their children Evan and wife Amber Watkins and their son Bowen and daughter Brilie; Brenna and husband Dr. Neal Berger of Manhattan Beach, California, and their daughter, Ella; Linda Jean Sell of Las Vegas, Nevada; and Leslie Adrianne Nour and her husband, Chuck, of Denver, and their children Samantha and Logan. Chuck will also be remembered by hundreds of devoted friends here in Colorado, California, and around the world. Joan wishes to thank all their friends who have been so helpful at this sad time, and request donations be made in his memory to the Air Force Association Scholarship Fund, 1501 Lee Highway, Arlington VA 22209. A celebration of Chuck's life will be held in the spring. BECAUSE I HAVE FLOWN, I ENVY NO MAN ON EARTH!