Charlie Bockius of Lompoc passed away following a lengthy illness at the age of 80 on July 14th, 2022. He is survived by his wife, Ann, and daughters Barbara Hinch, Katherine Miller, and Karin Powers; also, eight grandchildren, seven great grandchildren; his brother, George, and several nieces and nephews.

Serving our country as a Sergeant in the Air Force took Charlie to Vietnam and eventually brought him to Vandenberg AFB and Lompoc where he met and married Ann in 1971.  After separating from the Air Force, Charlie attended Cal Poly, graduating with a teaching degree.  Charlie taught school for 20 years, touching the lives of many children as a tutor and teacher of the 4th, 5 ^th , and 6th grades at Fillmore Elementary School.

Charlie's sense of humor was legendary as was his love of music, which he shared by giving lessons to people of all abilities – recently, he gave lessons to a Physical Therapist in his hospital room!  He played multiple instruments, enjoying all types of music – rock & roll, jazz, blues, classical, flamenco, folk, and even barbershop harmonies, but it was Bluegrass that he really loved in his later years.  Locally, he played with the Bear Creek "Rambers" and the Southside Bluegrass Band.  He enjoyed jam sessions at Bluegrass festivals, at times playing all night long and into the next day, only stopping for a cup of coffee and some breakfast. He and Ann often traveled to Nashville to visit grandchildren and attend Bluegrass Award events, reconnecting with musician friends gained over the years.

Charlie was a large presence in many lives and will be greatly missed.  A celebration of his life will be held at the Lompoc Elks Lodge on November 26, 2022 – and you can bet there will be music!