Charles Harry Garhart

Charles H. Garhart, 87, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado. Born on September 9, 1937, in Topeka, Kansas, to Daniel H. Garhart and Mildred Stitt, Charles was raised by his grandparents, forming a deep connection with his Kansas roots and a strong sense of financial responsibility that stayed with him throughout his life.

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Charles served from 1956 to 1960, where he worked as a crew chief on radar systems for the F-102 interceptor aircraft. It was during his time in the service that he met Loretta J. Jones, and the two were married on Christmas Day, 1958. Their union lasted until Loretta’s passing in 2004.

Charles spent much of his career as an engineer with a medical instrumentation company, a role that took him across the country troubleshooting lifesaving medical equipment. In Boulder, Colorado, he and Loretta raised six children: Charlene, Daniel, Cheryl, Kristina, Matthew, and Alex. After retiring in 1986, Charles and his family moved to Delta, Colorado, where he immersed himself in hobbies like carpentry, volunteering with the Fairview High School and Delta High School marching band, and taking on various odd jobs, his favorite of which was working as a park ranger at Sweitzer Lake.

Charles was gifted at problem-solving and working with his hands. He was known as a true “Jack of all trades”. He built his own home from the ground up, mastering plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry along the way. He had a special talent for woodworking, crafting everything from intricate furniture to handmade toys. One of his core beliefs was teaching his children to be resourceful—always encouraging them to “try and fix it yourself” before calling for help. Family was central to his life, and he was always ready to offer support and care in any way he could.

Charles enjoyed many outdoor activities in his younger years, including archery, camping, and hunting. His love for archery led him to become the Rocky Mountain Seven-State Champion, and he proudly coached his son, Daniel. Later in life, Charles discovered a passion for bowling, spurred on in part by his partner, Edna Steffen of Montrose CO. He participated in local leagues in Montrose, Colorado, where he formed lasting friendships.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife Loretta, his partner Edna, and his daughter Charlene (Jack). He is survived by his sons Daniel (Caroline), Matthew, and Alex (Nadia), and his daughters Cheryl and Kristina (Michael). He also leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Kamri Garhart, Jordan DeWitt (Basil), and Ari Sloss.

A celebration of Charles’ life will be held in Delta, Colorado, in September. The family kindly requests memorial contributions be made in Charles’ name to The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado. The Wild Animal Sanctuary | Keenesburg, CO | Home