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With profound sadness and enduring love, we announce the passing of Lt. Col. Charles Delano Wennermark (USAF, Retired), who departed this life on May 5, 2025, at his residence in San Antonio, Texas, just shy of his 75th birthday. Charles was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, Air Force veteran, educator, and faithful servant of God—a man whose life was defined by quiet strength, humility, and an unwavering dedication to others. Born on May 11, 1950, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Charles was a graduate of Harlandale High School (San Antonio, TX), Class of 1968. He went on to attend St. Mary’s University (San Antonio, TX), where he earned a degree in History and Political Science in 1972. During his college years, he was an active and proud member of the Tau Delta Sigma Fraternity, forming lifelong friendships and developing a strong foundation of leadership, service, and camaraderie. Charles answered the call to serve his country soon after graduating, embarking on what would become a distinguished 23-year career in the United States Air Force. As a Radar/Instructor Navigator and Bombardier, he played a vital role in the strategic operations of the Air Force, charting missions with precision, courage, and a deep sense of duty. While serving, he also pursued and completed a Master’s Degree in Counseling—demonstrating his deep commitment to supporting and guiding others, both in and out of uniform. His service reflected the very best of military values—discipline, honor, and integrity—and he earned the respect of his fellow airmen and commanding officers alike. He received multiple awards and commendations during his tenure. Charles approached every assignment with humility and resolve, and his leadership left a lasting impression on those who served beside him. After retiring from the military, Charles brought the same passion and discipline to a second career in education. He began teaching middle school math at Wheatley Middle School, where he quickly became known for his patience, clarity, and his unique ability to connect with students from all walks of life. In addition to teaching, he served as a coach for football, soccer, and track—mentoring young athletes and instilling in them the values of teamwork, perseverance, and discipline. He later joined Connally Middle School, where his gift for teaching flourished even further. There, he earned the prestigious Teacher of the Year award—an honor that reflected not only his mastery of the subject, but his deep care for every student who walked into his classroom. Charles believed in the power of education to transform lives, and he made sure each child knew they were capable of greatness, both in math and beyond. Faith was a constant throughout Charles’s life. He was a devoted and active member of St. Brigid's Catholic Church, where he found joy and purpose in service. As a 3rd Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus Council 11596, Charles gave generously of his time and energy, always ready to lend a hand and participate in numerous charitable efforts. He also served as Financial Secretary, managing the council's financial matters with the same care and attention to detail he applied to all aspects of his life. His quiet acts of kindness and deep spiritual commitment left a lasting mark on his church community. Away from service and work, Charles found joy in cheering on his favorite sports teams. Whether he was watching the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros, San Antonio Spurs, or Texas A&M (where his daughter and money went), Charles brought the same steadfast loyalty and enthusiasm to the stands as he did to every other part of his life. Sports were a way for him to connect with loved ones, share stories, and enjoy life’s little victories. Charles is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Deborah Nelson Wennermark, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, partnership, and adventure. He also leaves behind his children, Chris Wennermark (45) and Kirsten Freeman (42), and his son-in-law, Jacob Freeman, whose lives were shaped by Charles’s example of integrity, warmth, and wisdom. His grandchildren, Aiden (13) and Sophie (10), who affectionately called him "Grampy," were the lights of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them—whether helping with homework, telling stories from his flying days, or cheering them on from the sidelines. He is also survived by his sister, Jeanne Howell (Doyal), and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, John Harold Wennermark, his mother, Roberta Brown Wennermark, and his brother, John David Wennermark. Charles will be remembered for the way he lived: with faith, generosity, and deep devotion to the people and causes he loved. His legacy lives on in every life he touched—with each student he taught, each airman he flew alongside, and each family member who carries his spirit forward. Charles would want his Visitation/Rosary to be a fun gathering, rather than a somber one, and would love to have people wear their favorite San Antonio Spurs, Houston Astros, Dallas Cowboys, or Texas A&M attire, or a St. Brigid ACTS shirt or Knights of Columbus shirt. In honor of Charles’s lifelong service, memorial donations may be made in his name to a veterans’ organization, educational charity of your choice, Bishop Thomas J. Flanagan Knights of Columbus Council 11596, or St. Brigid Catholic Church. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Tributes

Charles D. Wennermark

May 11, 1950 - May 5, 2025