Charles L. Taylor

Charles L. Taylor, age 82, resident of Walbridge, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at St. Charles Hospital in Oregon, Ohio. He was born on December 19, 1942, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late William and Virginia (Hauri) Taylor.

Charles graduated from Lake High School, class of 1962. Shortly after high school, he met his sweetheart June at the Walbridge Roller Rink and got married on August 29, 1964. After graduating, he proudly served in the United States Army from 1964 to 1966 as an artilleryman. This period in his life not only strengthened his dedication to service but also laid the foundation for the hardworking spirit he carried into his careers. Following his military service, Charles became a skilled iron worker, proudly affiliated with Local 55, and later took on the role of yard master at the Walbridge Railroad, where he dedicated twenty years of his life. He concluded his career with a commitment to Wood County.

Charles was known not only for his professional accomplishments, but also for his remarkable commitment to his community. For 19 years, he coached girls’ softball in Walbridge, serving as president of the Walbridge Softball Association. His passion for the game and his genuine desire to mentor young athletes showcased his caring nature and his love for fostering teamwork and sportsmanship.

In addition to his coaching, Charles enjoyed spending time with his family. He was an avid fisherman and boater. He cherished attending his grandchildren's school sporting events, where he offered his unwavering support and cheering enthusiasm.

His kind-hearted spirit and commitment to family, friends, and community will be sorely missed.

Those left to forever cherish his memory are his children, Denise (Scott) Hauter, Debra (Michael) Gerke, and Gregory Taylor; grandchildren, Haley (Gabe) Scott, Kelsi (Matt) Stencel, Brandon (Elizabeth) Taylor, Zachary Hauter, Kendall Gerke, and Ryan Taylor; great granddaughters, Maeleigh and Elaine; brother-in-law, Charlie Vermilyea; and sister-in-law’s, Sandi (Bob) Faulkner, Bev Vermilyea, Betsy Taylor, and Trish Conway.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, June Ann (Vermilyea) Taylor; brothers, William, Don, and Dan Taylor; in-laws, William and Geraldine (Smith) Vermilyea; brother-in-law’s, William, Steve and David Vermilyea; and sister-in-law, Judith Hill.

A memorial gathering will take place at Freck Funeral Chapel, 1155 S. Wynn Road Oregon, Ohio 43616, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm, with the celebration of life beginning at 5:00 pm. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Wounded Warrior Project.