December 2, 1941 – July 26, 2017
Born in the District of Columbia, and raised in Ruther Glen, Virginia. Father to two daughters, and beloved grandfather of three grandchildren. He served in the Air Force as an airplane mechanic, which put him on the path to becoming a pilot.
Flying airplanes is what Charlie loved the most, and what he always wanted to share with anyone he talked with. He was hired by TransWorld Airlines (TWA) and enjoyed a career as a commercial pilot until he retired as a Captain at the young age of 48 to pursue many other interests. He continued his passion for aviation by teaching ground school and private pilot instruction in Santa Clara and San Benito Counties. He has had many students over the years that would always stay in touch with “Captain Jackson”.
He served his community as a volunteer firefighter and eventually was appointed a Fire Commissioner for the South Santa Clara County Fire District, also known as Cal Fire. The local firefighting community held a special place in his heart. Many lifelong friendships were made through the fire department.
Charlie had many various hobbies and talents. He reported and wrote for The Gilroy Dispatch newspaper and aviation magazines for many years. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in the late 1990’s. Charlie was a regular at the local gym in Gilroy, formerly known as Parkside Athletic Club, and then more recently a member at Gold’s Gym.
Charlie inspired many aviation enthusiasts, young and old alike. He was always generous with his time, his knowledge, and a good story.
Charlie is survived by daughter Kelly Jackson Smith and son-in-law Spencer Smith of Granite Bay, California, and his three grandchildren, Tanner, Payton, and Cassidy Smith. He is also survived by his daughter Tammy Renee Blanchette, and son-in-law Robert Blanchette of Aptos, California.
A memorial service will be held at San Martin Airport on Saturday, August 19, 2017 at 5pm. The address of San Martin Airport is 13025 Murphy Avenue, San Martin, CA 95046.
For online condolences please visit www.habingfamilyfuneralhome.com
