Charles Donald Stotts' Obituary
Charles Donald Stotts passed away in St. Helens, Oregon on February 26, at the age of 86.
Chuck was born on June 3, 1924 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Charles Edward and Kathleen McCartney Stotts. He was the oldest of three children. In 1937, the family moved from Butte, Montana to the Portland, Oregon area, where Chuck graduated from Corbett High School in 1941.
He joined the United States Navy during World War II in September 1941, and served at Pearl Harbor during the attack on December 7th. He was honorably discharged in December 1945. While in the service, he was stationed in New York City while his ship was being repaired. While there, he met the love of his life, Veronica "Ronnie" Louise Carp Stotts, at a local roller rink. He won her heart by skating backwards and talking with her as she skated forward toward him. They were married on September 6, 1947 at the St. Rose Church in Portland.
It was in Portland that Chuck, a natural salesman, sold items from Campbell's soup to pianos which he also tuned. In 1960, Chuck started Nylon Wholesale, Inc. out of his garage. In 1972, Chuck and Ronnie moved their thriving business and family to Scappoose, building a warehouse on Second and Santosh, and their dream home, one of the first on the Scappoose hill. Both still stand today. His company grew to provide many jobs, finally locating in a 30, 000 square foot warehouse in St. Johns, and served stores throughout the northwest, including the Payless Drug Store chain. Chuck was very proud of his family business, and was a wonderful man to work with. In 1980, when their first granddaughter was born, he and Ronnie retired to enjoy life and family.
Chuck was a member of the VFW, Post 1 for over 32 years. He was a talented pianist who delighted his audience. He especially enjoyed ragtime music. Chuck also loved golfing, and cruising the Columbia River in his boat. He and Ronnie rarely missed watching a Seattle Mariners baseball game together. He was a friend to all who knew him. He was absolutely adored by his grandchildren. He loved his family unconditionally, and was very funny, never missing a chance to tell a silly joke or to make up a funny story.
Chuck is survived by his wonderful, loving wife of over 63 years, Veronica L. Stotts of Scappoose, sons; Charles Richard Stotts of Scappoose, Art and wife Katrina Stotts of Long Beach, Washington, and George and wife Peggy Stotts of Scappoose, brother; John and wife Joyce Campbell of Renton, Washington, grandchildren; Veronica N. Stotts, Angela M. Stotts and fiance Beau Brian, David R. Stotts and Kaarina M. Stotts, and a great grandson Aarin M. Hoygaard.
Contributions can be made to a charity of your choice in remembrance of Charles D. Stotts. A graveside service at Columbia Memorial Gardens will be scheduled at a later date.
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