Charles Tengler

Charles Anthony Tengler III passed away on August 21st, 2025 in Salt Lake City, Utah from heart failure. He was 80 years old. Chuck was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing. He was the center of our family, our rock, our trusted confidante, and the very best papa we could ever wish for. Saying that he will be missed is an absolute understatement.

Charles Tengler (lovingly referred to as Chuckie, Chuckles, Horney (by his wife), Papa, and Homeless Santa) was born on July 1st, 1945, to Bert and Charles Tengler in Maple Heights, Ohio. He was the apple of their eye from day one. He graduated from Solon High and went on to earn his Civil Engineering Degree from Purdue University. Chuck continued to support his alma mater and was so excited when they made it into the NCAA championship last year. His sports teams haven’t had the best of luck through the years, but his devotion to The Cleveland Guardians, The Cleveland Browns, The Utah Jazz, and Purdue Boilermakers was unwavering. This was a testament to his devotion to everything he did in life. He loved his lifelong career of engineering; traveling the globe, working with incredible people along the way, and providing for his family. He fully committed himself to his wife, Terry, with his whole heart and was available 24/7 to do anything for her he possibly could. His love for his kids and grandkids was absolutely and completely unconditional. We all knew that he would do anything for us at the drop of a hat, no questions asked.

While serving in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in the Philippines during Vietnam, he met the love of his life, Teresa Ann Ashcraft. They were to have their 57th wedding anniversary on August 31st, 2025.

Chuck and Terry were always so happy to visit their family in Belize, Texas, and Arkansas. Each location had grown to be very special to them and became part of their lives, proudly.

Charles loved his life. Anyone who came into contact with him knew this. He was so proud of his kids. So proud of the life he got to live. Although hardships were faced, losing his parents, losing his eldest son, his wife having health issues, Chuck always found a way to make everyone laugh and to find the good in things.

Papa Tengler was a constantly curious man. He was continually spouting off random facts about different things, usually getting an eye roll and a laugh from whoever was around at the time. He kept everyone on their toes with his practical jokes. Another favorite pastime of his was being the local tour guide. He loved living in Salt Lake City; the four seasons, the people, the mountains, and the lifestyle, and couldn’t wait for the chance to show it off to anyone who visited.

More than anything in the world, Chuck loved his people. He was always keeping us up-to-date on Ckyler and Chase’s achievements, was Charlie’s biggest fan, and adored his sweet Ruthie. The Tengler house was and is the place where everyone gathered. Back in the day, as teenagers, his kids and their friends could be found hanging out with Papa and TT close by. Even now, if all the friends are hanging out, Papa wants to be included in conversation, in a card game, or to have a glass of wine. We know he’s missing us all. Being included in his tight circle, you ge to experience the funniest, smartest man on the planet.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents and his eldest son, Chris. He’s survived by his wife, Teresa, daughter Carrie (Oliver), son Chad (Abbie), daughter Charlene (Ted), his sisters Fran, Nancy, and Lisa, brother John, and grandkids Natasha, Jordan (Dara), Jomar, Ckyler, Chase, Charlie, and Ruthie, and great-grandbaby Oliver.

As we grieve this gigantic loss, we know many of you will want to show your love and support, and while flowers are always beautiful, what would truly help our mom right now is financial support to ease the unexpected expenses we’re facing. I promise we'll put it to really good use and donate anything that's left over. If you feel moved to give, contributions can be sent through Venmo to @Carrie-Tengler (last four 3301) or Zelle carrietstuart@gmail.com. We’re deeply grateful for the love, kindness, and generosity being shown to us during this difficult time.