Charles Everett DeWitt, Jr., was born February 15, 1939, in Jacksonville, Illinois, to Marion Wright and Charles Everett DeWitt. His father died when he was young, and his stepfather, Harry G. Story, raised him as his own. He was an only child and his mother’s pride and joy.
On June 15, 1961, Charles married Elizabeth “Betsy” Ann Heidinger. Together they welcomed three children: Heidi, John, and Steven. His children remember him for fun adventures in the “Super Car,” exploring the West Desert in search of arrowheads, and long afternoons playing Chinese checkers. He was a devoted father who never missed a single sporting event or milestone in his children’s lives — in fact, he could usually be spotted in the top row of the bleachers, camcorder mounted on its tripod, capturing every moment.
Charles served in the military and was stationed in Texas; Heidelberg, Germany; and Dugway, Utah, where he went on to spend his career as a civilian in the Test Operations Division, eventually serving as Chief Officer. One of the highlights of his career was “Manny,” a robot he built for the military to test the effectiveness of protective gear.
Charles loved the outdoors — especially hunting and fishing — and had a lifelong fascination with electronics. He was particularly devoted to amateur (ham) radio and was known in that community by his call sign, W7DTO. A childhood friend once recalled that she always knew when Charles was on the radio, because it would knock out their TV reception.
After Betsy passed away on August 16, 1998, Charles married Dawn Newquist on October 23, 1999. Over the years, Chuck and Dawn traveled extensively—both across the United States and overseas—including unforgettable trips to Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands. Charles also delighted in the company of their beloved cats — Squeaker, Smartie, and Josephine.
His sense of humor and bright smile will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Dawn; his children Heidi (Todd) Woodbury, John (Mia) DeWitt, and Steve (Jenn) DeWitt; five grandchildren: Lauren, Brea, Grant, Julia, and Rhyder; and his cat, Josephine.
The family wishes to thank The Ridge Foothill, Canyon Home Health, and Rosario Gill for their loving care.
A celebration of life will be held for Charles on Saturday, August 22nd from 5-7 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 S 900 E, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the entrance and parking on the north side of the building
W7DTO, signing off.
