Charles Brenner Tolson, a man of faith, service, adventure, and deep devotion to his family,

passed away on September 12, 2024, at the age of 81. His life, which began on July 12, 1943,

in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was marked by a rich tapestry of experiences that left an indelible

impression on all who knew him. Chuck, as his friends affectionately called him, was the eldest

of three children born to Wilson John Tolson and Mary Louis Webster. They later divorced. His

father remarried Arlene Albach, and he gained four more siblings.

In his early years, Chuck's parents joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,

leading the family to relocate briefly to Utah and then Nevada. Chuck's childhood in Nevada

sparked a lifelong passion for reptiles, much to the future delight of his children and

grandchildren—and to the playful dismay of his beloved wife.

The family later moved to Hawaii, where Chuck's sense of wonder only grew. He cultivated a

deep appreciation for birds, fishing, rocketry, airplanes, and the ocean. His fascination with

World War II history, particularly the Pacific theater, also began during his time on Oahu.

After his Hawaiian adventure, Chuck embraced California, spending his high school years in a

red Thunderbird, exploring the Sierra Nevada mountains, and developing a love for camping,

hiking, and rock climbing.

As a teenager, Chuck began painting landscapes inspired by the forests he frequented, and this

budding interest evolved into a lifelong mastery of oil painting and watercolors. His stunning

artwork now adorns homes and offices across the country.

Following high school, Chuck attended Brigham Young University (BYU), where his roommates

encouraged him to serve a mission. He spent 2 ½ years in Southern Brazil, where he developed

a lasting love for the Brazilian people, their culture, and their food. His commitment to the gospel

of Jesus Christ also deepened during this time.

Upon returning from his mission, Chuck met the love of his life, Diana Ruth Evert, of Cody,

Wyoming. The two were married in the Salt Lake Temple on June 9, 1967. After graduating with

a degree in chemistry, Chuck and Diana settled in North Orem, Utah, where Chuck worked as a

metallurgist at Geneva Steel. They remained in North Orem for over 50 years, building a life

centered on family, faith, and service to their community.

Together, Chuck and Diana raised eight children, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and

adventure. Chuck shared many of his passions with his children, including hiking and

backpacking through the mountains, catching butterflies, painting landscapes, and working on

projects in his woodshop. He filled their days with joy by singing silly songs, and watching

Looney Tunes cartoons.

The family often embarked on camping and fishing trips, where Chuck would entertain them

with his stories while they enjoyed freshly caught fish cooked over the fire. His love for

photography helped capture countless memories, each one a testament to the rich and

adventurous life he lived with his family.

Chuck's love for nature and the outdoors found its greatest expression in his dedication to

Scouting and working with young men. As a scoutmaster, he mentored hundreds of boys, many

of whom saw him as a second father. He led countless expeditions into the Uintas and other

beautiful wilderness areas, creating memories that lasted a lifetime. His professional life later

expanded into global travel, where he shared his expertise in chemistry and water treatment as

a professor at Utah Valley University (UVU) and a food scientist at Morinda.

An avid gardener, Chuck found immense joy in cultivating and sharing the fruits and vegetables

from his meticulously tended yard. Chuck loved to wander his garden, talking to the birds, and

always ensuring they had a steady supply of birdseed and hummingbird nectar. His deep

knowledge and love for nature meant he could identify every bird that stopped by for a visit,

delighting in their presence. His home was always full of life, from reptiles and parakeets to the

occasional dog or cat.

Chuck also served his church faithfully, including as Bishop of the Aspen 4th Ward. His

compassion, especially toward those facing poverty, health challenges, and mental illness, left a

lasting legacy. He encouraged everyone he met to keep the faith and drew strength from his

own, always "blooming where he was planted."

Chuck passed peacefully after a brief battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love,

kindness, and unwavering service. His life was a blessing to all who had the privilege of

knowing him, and his memory will continue to inspire generations to come. His family looks

forward with faith to the day they will be reunited with him.

Charles Brenner Tolson is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Diana Ruth Tolson, and

their eight children: Aaron (Michelle) Tolson, Pamela (Christopher) McReynolds, Rebecca (Bart)

Smith, Daniel (Elese) Tolson, Sara (Spencer) Pratt, Eileen (Jeremy) Tew, Matthew Tolson, and

Amy (Andrew) Rosenvall; 43 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren, with more on the way.

He is also survived by his siblings: Jeff (Sheryl) Tolson, Judy Morlan, Ruth (Steve) Jones, Irene

(Brad) Smith, David Tolson, and Alice (Steve) Wind; as well as numerous other relatives and

friends who loved him dearly.

Chuck was preceded in death by his grandson Cole Tolson and granddaughter Lily Rosenvall.

His family looks forward to a joyful reunion with him and those they've lost in the eternal life to

come.