Charles Fugate, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026, in the comfort of his home in Artesia, New Mexico, surrounded by the love and memories of the life he built with his family.

Born on January 26, 1948, Charles lived a life defined by hard work, service, adventure, and, above all, an unwavering love for his family. On July 24, 1967, he married the love of his life, Sue Fugate. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, countless memories, and a family that will forever carry his legacy in their hearts.

Charles proudly served three tours in the United States Marine Corps, completing his military career with the honorable rank of Staff Sergeant as a hydraulic mechanic. His dedication, mechanical abilities, and strong work ethic continued long after his military service ended. He went on to own his own mechanic business, where he used his talents to help countless people throughout Artesia get back on the road. Charles was the kind of man who could fix just about anything, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to those who needed it.

Outside of his work, Charles found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He loved hunting, fishing, tinkering with computers, building them from the ground up, and playing his favorite games. His love for the outdoors became a cherished family tradition, especially with his grandchildren. He taught each of them how to hunt, how to accurately aim their muzzleloaders, how to string their own fishing poles, and even how to navigate the mountain roads. These were more than lessons; they were precious moments spent together, creating memories and passing down knowledge that will live on for generations.

But there was another side to Charles that made him so special. Beneath his rugged, outdoorsman spirit was a tenderhearted man who never hesitated to show his love in the sweetest ways. He would braid his wife's and granddaughters' long hair until they were old enough to do it themselves. He baked cakes for everyone's birthdays, making sure each celebration was special. He rode bikes and played school with his grandchildren, always finding ways to be part of their little worlds. And when it came to making their dreams come true, Charles went above and beyond. He even built his grandchildren a clubhouse as large as a tiny home, complete with flower boxes and a shingled roof. That clubhouse was more than a structure; it was a reflection of the time, thought, and love he poured into the lives of those he cherished.

Charles loved his family fiercely. Whether he was teaching them a new skill, fixing something that was broken, baking a birthday cake, or simply spending time together, he showed his love through his actions. He created a legacy not only through the things he built with his hands, but through the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the memories that will forever bring smiles to the faces of those who knew him.

Charles was preceded in death by his father, James Lawrence Fugate; his mother, Zelma Fugate; his brothers, James Lawrence Jr. Fugate and David Fugate; his sister, Laurna K. Fugate; and his oldest son, Christopher Fugate.

He leaves behind a legacy of love in the hearts of his beloved wife of 59 years, Sue Fugate; his youngest son, Richard, and Richard's wife, Marissa; and his grandson, Vincent Fugate. He is also survived by his granddaughter, Crisha, and her husband, Shilo, and their daughter, Kira Morgan; his granddaughter, Latosha Fugate, spouse Zach Adams, and her sons, Zane Fugate Muniz and Sterling Seal; and his grandson, Aaron, and Aaron's wife, Preslie, and their children, Asher, Zuri, and Nya Fugate. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Johnson; his brother, Michael Fugate; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

Though Charles may no longer be physically present, the lessons he taught, the traditions he created, and the love he gave will remain woven into the lives of his family forever. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren will carry forward his knowledge, his sense of adventure, his willingness to help others, and the countless little things that made him who he was.

He was a Marine, a mechanic, an outdoorsman, a builder, a teacher, a husband, and a father. But perhaps his greatest accomplishment was the family he loved so deeply and the memories he leaves behind.

He will be missed more than words can express, loved beyond measure, and remembered always.

In keeping with the family's wishes, Charles will be laid to rest in a private burial attended by family only.