It is with great sadness that the family of Charles “Chuck” Frederick Justus Jr. announce his passing on June 2, 2021 in Mary Esther, FL of natural causes. Chuck, loving father of five, was born on September 24, 1944 in Paterson, New Jersey.
Chuck grew up in New York City before joining the United States Navy at the age of 17. He served six years in the Navy in San Diego and was a crewmember on the USS Coral Sea aircraft carrier before taking a job as a switchman for the Southern Pacific Railroad (SPRR) in Oakland, CA. Chuck, most known as “Choo Choo” by fellow SPRR employees, retired after 20 years. He then worked in the hospitality industry where he managed several hotels before retiring in San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina.
Chuck was a larger than life character who lived his life to the fullest. He was kind, was always giving to others and strived to make others happy. In fact, “Make someone happy today even if it’s with a smile” was one of his favorite quotes and words he lived by. He often left blankets and shoes under bridges for the homeless and provided neighborhood children a sense of belonging with the Justus family. Chuck loved to cook almost as much as he loved to eat, play chess and Bocce ball, and rescue strays. He is fondly remembered as the man to shout, “Chuck’s here!” upon entering a room and waving goodbye as he left.
In keeping with Chuck’s wishes to spend eternity among the seas, his remains will be spread in the ocean at a later date.
He was predeceased by his parents, Jennie and Charles F. Justus Sr., and his beloved wife of 48 years, Shirley Justus.
Chuck leaves loving memories to be cherished by his; son Charles F. Justus III and his wife Lyra of Hayward, CA; daughters Diane Justus of Bend, OR, Edith Justus of Hayward, CA, Denette Justus of Anchorage, AK and Jenette Reisen and her husband Richard Reisen of Fort Walton Beach FL; aunt, Edith Beach of Avril Park, NY; three uncles, Wesley Jansson of Stephentown, NY, David Jansson and Ernest Jansson of Argyle, NY; nine grandchildren David and Mike Rodriguez, Charles, Alexx, and Melissa Justus, Ashley Gamble, Rachel Hightower, and Dale and Frankie Paulson; seven adored great grandchildren; and sister-in-law Kay Davenport.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to PAWS at https://www.paws.org/ or other local animal rescue facility.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Emerald Coast Hospice for their support in his final days.
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