Charles L. Runde, 75, passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on Nov. 7, 2020. He was a resident of Springfield, Ore. for 17 years, southern California for 12 years and five years in Utah.
Charles L. Runde was born Sept. 15, 1945 to Louis and Iola Runde in Elmhurst, Ill. and grew up in Shullsburg, Wis.
After high school, he attended Loras College in Iowa and was drafted into the Army 4th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War where he served two years. He was a decorated Purple Heart recipient and proud veteran.
He was accomplished in track and field sports and basketball. While in high school he met and later married Jane Knox. They celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on Nov. 25, 2019.
His life work was accounting and he managed credit unions in Iowa and Wisconsin.
He was most proud of his three children Amy Zimmerman of Redmond, Wash., Nick and Vivi of Chula Vista, Calif. and Jesse Runde of Huntington Beach, Calif. He also loved his four grandchildren Spencer, Whitney, Maddie and Kenny. He is survived by brothers Peter and Mary Runde of Fond du Lac, Wis., Bruce and Lucy Runde of Des Moines, Iowa and sisters Jane and Barney Morgan of Dubuque, Iowa and Julie Dax and Bruce Mann of Albuquerque, N.M. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his brother John (Teri) Runde of Janesville, Wis. and three nephews Mike, Randy and Jason.
Charles was quick-witted, humorous, very artistically inclined and gifted with words. His speeches at family celebrations are memorable and touching, usually composed on the spot.
He was an avid reader and history buff, often regaling his family with what he learned and impressing them with his immense knowledge.
The family plans to celebrate his life after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides. Burial will be at VA Memorial cemetery in Portland.
The family would like to thank the VA Healthcare Staff, Signature Hospice Staff and Dr. Nordsieck for their care of Charles in the last few years of his life.
