Obituary
Charles W. Charlie Aukerman (77) was born July 30, 1939 to Ira and Buela (Packard) Aukerman in Lodi, Ohio and passed unexpectedly on October 29, 2016. He lived with his family in Elyria, Ohio and studied political science at the University of Michigan and Kent State University earning his Master’s Degree.
Charlie was longtime editor for Sun Newspapers and expressed his dismay over the dying newspaper business as there was nothing like holding that paper in your hand to “read all about it.” He enjoyed all types of writing, and as an avid sport enthusiast, sports writing was on the top of his list.
Civic minded, Charlie was a founding member and producer for the WCTV Wadsworth cable station since the mid 1980’s and served as the cable commissioner nearly 30 years. He served on Wadsworth City Council City Council. He was Wadsworth proud!
Education was very important to Charlie, and was a life-long learner, still studying online courses of any topic that intrigued him from Tai Chi to Gourmet Cooking. He enjoyed learning and after retirement from the Sun Newspapers, he discovered a new passion for teaching journalism at the University of Akron and if not been for declining health would have continued on that path.
Charlie’s loves included the Wadsworth community, politics, Lions Club, Wadsworth High School sports, musical theatre, and all things Disney. His last day on this earth was spent on a return trip from Disney World where he spent the week enjoying the sights and sounds of the parks he so treasured.
Family was important to Charlie. He enjoyed family gatherings at the home of his Aunt Frances Swartz, always the first to arrive and the last to leave as his aunt handed him a sandwich at the door with instructions to “get home before dark.” Charlie looked forward to family gatherings and becoming acquainted with the newest little family members.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents and is survived by his Aunt Frances (Packard) Swartz and many cousins and friends.
Charlie will be deeply missed by family, friends and former students.
Visitation will be Thursday, November 3rd from 5-8 PM at the Hilliard-Rospert Funeral Home, 174 N. Lyman St. Wadsworth and funeral services will take place on Friday, Nov. 4th at 11:00 AM with Majors Tom and Debbie Grace officiating. Interment will be in Burbank Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Charles W. Aukerman Educational Fund C/O Raymond James Trust N.A. Trustee, the Wadsworth High School Sports Boosters or Wadsworth Lion’s Club.
Hilliard-Rospert
(330-334-1501)
www.HilliardRospert.com