Charles Vincent Hosner

Charles Vincent Hosner was born July 11, 1926 and died February 23, 2017. His parents were James J and Etho M (Wilson) Hosner. He had one sister, Dorothy Clare (Hosner) Ertzbischoff, who died in 1977.

Born in Ophir and spending his early years there, Charlie attended Montrose High School, and served in the US Army in the Philippines during World War II.

He married Lily Mae Lelia (DeJulio) Hosner on 19 May 1951, and they had 56 wonderful years together before she died in 2007.

They had two sons, Nick Dean Hosner, who died in 1990 and Stephen Paul Hosner, who died in 2015. Frequent calls and visits from Nick’s former wife, Pam, and Steve’s widow, Danielle, were greatly treasured. Charlie is also survived by Lily’s brother, Ed DeJulio and his wife Karen, Lily’s sister, Betty Sparks, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Charlie had a vast knowledge of Western Colorado railroads, power plants, and mines and he enjoyed telling stories and jokes. Sometimes it was hard to know whether the story was true or not until he got to the punch line! His memory for names and details was phenomenal. He also loved jeeping, reading, family history research, and photographing the beautiful landscapes of Western Colorado.

A man of strong faith and values, Charlie was an inspiring role-model to all who knew him. As taking long walks outdoors became more difficult, he would sometimes walk up and down the aisles of the grocery stores instead, interacting with people all along the way. His personal independence was of great importance to him, and he never wanted anyone to try to help him, but he was generous and caring to so many friends and acquaintances, and his advice on approaching various jobs or problems could be very valuable. Always an optimist, he recently told someone “I’m happy. I’m really happy.” You will be greatly missed, Charlie Fix-It!

Services will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. On Thursday, March 2, there will be a viewing at 6 pm and a vigil service and rosary at 7 pm. The funeral mass will be at 11 am on Friday, March 3, followed by interment at Grand View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Charlie’s honor may be made to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Crippin Funeral Home in Montrose.