Charles Louis Slate

Charles Louis "Chuck AKA Papa" Slate, 91, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, in Brea, California. Born on December 23, 1933, in Venita, Oklahoma, Chuck lived a long and fulfilling life marked by dedication to family, a strong work ethic, and a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of daily life. Chuck was the beloved husband of Irma Jo Slate for 63 years until her passing in 2013. Together they built a life rooted in love and mutual respect. He was a devoted father to Dale Slate and his wife Pat Slate, and to Patricia Conrad and her husband Bryan Conrad. His legacy continues through his four grandchildren—Christopher Conrad of Wexford, Pennsylvania; Marsha Collins of Brea, California; Yolanda Slate of Anaheim, California; and Jesse Slate of Brea, California—as well as ten great-grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ova J. Slate and Jesse S. Slate; his wife Irma; and his siblings Kenneth, Walt, Claude, William, Edith, and Edna. Chuck had a natural talent for fixing things. He found joy in taking items apart just to reassemble them better than before. Whether tinkering in the garage or refurbishing old finds to resell for extra cash, he took satisfaction in staying busy with his hands. Recycling papers and bottles kept him active and gave him opportunities to connect with others—something he genuinely enjoyed. A man who appreciated both structure and spontaneity, Chuck followed the stock market channel daily and kept a close eye on his investments. He could often be found on his front porch chatting with neighbors or playing handheld poker games and solitaire. Card games were a favorite activity at family gatherings—especially during lively barbecues that brought everyone together. He had a special fondness for Pat’s egg rolls and lemon pie—treats he looked forward to with delight. Chuck also had an enduring love for his Corvette. He spent countless hours polishing it until it gleamed under the sun. Taking drives—and occasionally racing younger drivers—brought out the playful spirit that remained with him throughout his life. Country music often played in the background while he worked in the garage or tended to his yard—a space he took great pride in maintaining. His home reflected his values: neatness, care, and attention to detail. Those who knew Chuck remember him as a loving and gentle soul with an unfiltered sense of humor and a generous heart. He never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. A hard worker through and through, he valued friendship deeply and cherished every moment spent with loved ones. A viewing will be held on August 24, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Memory Garden Memorial Park & Mortuary, 455 West Central Ave. A memorial service will follow on August 25, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM at the same location. A wake will take place after the graveside service; details will be announced at the memorial. Chuck’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him—as a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, neighbor, friend, and kind-hearted man who made the world around him just a little bit brighter. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him

Tributes

Charles Louis Slate

December 23, 1933 - August 13, 2025