Charles "Charlie" Wyse

Charles "Charlie" Wyse, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather known for his storytelling prowess and love of the outdoors, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2024, at Parkview Home in Wayland, Iowa. He was 86 years old.

Born in 1938 on his father's farm south of Wayland to Ray and Velma Wyse, Charlie's childhood was filled with outdoor adventures and hunting along Sugar Creek, which ran through the family farmland and timber. As he grew, Charlie worked the farm alongside his father and brother Sam, using draft horses. He attended Douglas country school, which he referred to as "Douglas University," before continuing his education at Wayland High School. 

As a young man Charlie enlisted in the US Army, serving in an artillery battalion in Germany. After his military service, he worked for Yoder Feeds in the feed mill and as a delivery driver before becoming a successful salesman for decades. In his retirement, Charlie worked for the Wayland Telephone Company.

On September 4, 1966, Charlie married Martha Miller in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. The couple settled in Wayland to raise their family and were active members of the Wayland Mennonite Church. An avid hunter and outdoor enthusiast, Charlie raised and trained countless coon hounds and beagles throughout his life, with the highlight being a Grand Night Champion Coonhound.

Charlie was a natural people person with a gift for storytelling and entertainment. His blue eyes would shine especially bright as he was about to embellish a story, much to the delight of his grandchildren, who loved how he would creatively change the storylines of their favorite books. Although he never played sports in high school, Charlie was a devoted father who rarely missed his sons' athletic events, following them through high school and on to college.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Velma, sisters Helen and Donna, and his brother Sam. He is survived by his wife Martha, sons Russ (Brenda) of Center Point and Ray (Donna) of Omaha as well as grandsons Jed and Griff and his “favorite granddaughter” Alys.

Charlie leaves behind a legacy of love for family, passion for the outdoors, and a gift for forming meaningful connections with others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

There will not be a memorial service, as were his wishes, and his ashes will be spread on the farm he loved so much. The family requests any donations in his name, be made to the Wayland Fire Department. The Olson-Powell Chapel & Crematory is caring for Charlie and his family.