It is with profound love and deep remembrance that we honor a life defined by perseverance, service, devotion to family, and an unbreakable spirit.
Charlee was born on February 21, 1952, in Holyoke, Massachusetts, to Thomas Francis Hughes and Helen Ann Hughes. He had just celebrated his 74th birthday when he passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of his immediate family.
Born with a steadfast work ethic, he began contributing to the world at just 10 years old, mowing lawns, painting, and laying sod. By 16 he was working in a paper mill, earning spending money throughout high school and college—early signs of the resilience and determination that would shape his entire life. His career path took him through Saga Food Service for four years before answering a higher calling: service to his country.He proudly entered the United States Army, dedicating nearly 21 years to Combat Arms and Supply Management. His commitment, leadership, and sacrifice left a lasting mark on all who served beside him. After retiring from the Army, he continued to lead and innovate in civilian life, spending 26 years with Sprint, Lucent, EMC/Dell, and Hitachi/Vantara as an Information Technology Storage Project Manager. His professional journey reflected both discipline and adaptability, hallmarks of a life lived with purpose.
Education was another pillar of his life. He attended Munson Academy in High School and then matriculated to Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois. While at Monmouth, he was an active member of the Fraternity Tau Kappa Epsilon. He began graduate studies in international law before being called to active duty, later earning master’s degrees in both Project Management and Public Administration (City Planning). His lovefor learning never wavered.
On February 19, 1983, he married the love of his life, Vickey, who eventually became accountant with the U.S. Department of Justice. Together they built a life rooted in partnership, admiration and unwavering strength. When Vickey was diagnosed with cancer in 1985, they faced the illness side by side with courage and devotion. Their battle continued until 2002, a testament to the depth of their bond and the extraordinary resilience of their love. Vickey preceded him in death in 2002.
Others who preceded him in death include: his parents Thomas and Helen Hughes, and granddaughter Abigail Blankenbaker.
He is survived by his siblings, Thomas D. Hughes and Christine Poulsen; his children and daughters-in-law—Michelle, Kevin and Lori, Shaun and Micah, and Matt; and by the seven grandchildren who brought him such joy: Julia, Jonah, Sophia, Landry, Haidyn, Brynn, and Josie.To him, family was everything. He was a steadfast support for each of his children in moments of major life changes. He cherished his grandchildren and carried in his heart the memory of a beloved granddaughter Abigail Nicole lost to a rare heart defect. His home was also shared with a loyal Golden Retriever, an English Bulldog and a lively collection of eight wild cats, including five kittens.
His passions revealed the adventurous and creative sides of him. He loved photography, woodworking, traveling, hiking, and music. In his younger years, he embraced thrill and challenge, skydiving, mountain climbing, and rock climbing—proof that he lived life fully, boldly, and without hesitation.He leaves behind a legacy of honor, strength, dedication to duty and curiosity. His life’s story is a reminder that character is built through hard work, love is shown through dedication, and a meaningful life is composed of the moments we give—whether to our country, our families, or the world around us.He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored by all who knew him.
Visitation will be held at Davis Funeral Chapel on Sunday, March 15, 2026 from 4 to 6 P.M. Funeral service will be held at Davis Funeral Chapel on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 11 A.M. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Davis Funeral Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Charlee’s name be made to the American Cancer Society or Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care We embrace and appreciate your love and support during this time!Michelle, Kevin, Shaun and Matt
Reception to follow at:Ten Penny Sports Bar and Grill529 Cherokee StreetLeavenworth, KS 66048
