Charles Marvin Carroll

Charles Marvin Carroll passed away peacefully a this home in Chico, California, on November 7, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 15, 1935, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Hannibal, Missouri, Charlie moved with his family to Chico, California in 1946. He attended Chico High School, graduating with the Class of 1953, and also earned a diploma from Monroe City High School in Missouri so he could graduate alongside the classmates he grew up with. He also attended Chico State College pursing art and merchandising. Charlie began his career in the grocery business, working as a box boy at Whit’s Market in 1951. A soon time after, he joined Miller’s Markets, working for Roy Miller. Roy became both a mentor and best man at Charlie and Loretta’s wedding, and the Millers and Carrolls remained close friends until Roy’s passing in 1996. Charlie continued his career in the grocery industry until his retirement in 1974when he focused on his real estate properties and became a dedicated rental property owner. Charlie joined the Benevolent and Protective Orde of Elks Lodge #423 in 1963 and served as Exalted Ruler in 1975–1976 and again in 1981–1982. He later served as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler in1985–1986. Charlie was instrumental in helping the Lodge transition from its downtown location to its current home, serving on the building committee and later as the official Lodge Historian. Charlie was an active member for 63 years. In honor of his years of service in 2017, the Chico Elks Lounge was named after him. Charlie’s energy and dedication were felt at every Elks meeting, event, and celebration. Attending the annual Elks Easter Brunch, Family Picnics and Elks Christmas parties, were a family tradition. Charlie was a well-known Chico historian, often quoting famous historical people like Mark Twain and Benjamin Franklin, in his writing articles, his presentations and speaking. He performed many memorial services for years for the Chico Elks Lodge. Chico museum even contacted him a few times for local historical information. Charlie was interviewed on television regarding the Miller Mansion history. A man of many talents, Charlie was an artist who painted countless banners for friends, family, and community events. In addition to banners, he professionally painted many signs around town. He also hand lettered show cards for car shows, including the Concours d’ Elegance. His passion for cars was legendary—at one point, he owned 26 classic cars. Charlie co-founded the Sierra View Region of the Vintage Chevrolet Club of America, (now Sierra View Cruisers) and chaired the very first Hot August Day Car Show. He was a member of the VCCA for 38years. His 1965 Impala Convertible appeared on the TV show Car Hunters. Several of his other classic cars were featured in national magazines. If any car enthusiast had questions about any car, any mode or year, they asked Charlie. Charlie met Loretta in 1973 while working on an advertisement for Wentz Market at The Gridley Herald, where Loretta was employed. They were married eight years later on May 2, 1981 at the Chico Elks Lodge. Their rehearsal dinner was held at the historic Miller Mansion, and the late Judge Lloyd Mulkey officiated their wedding on Pioneer Day ,with the Band Cottonwood, coming straight from the Pioneer Day Parade to provide the music following the ceremony and brunch. They loved traveling in their motorhome across the states for visiting friends and family in Missouri and Arizona. They also traveled for national car show events and meets, seeing the sights along the way, always traveling with a Yorkie. Charlie and Loretta built a beautiful life together ,full of love, laughter, and family. His children mean the world to them: Becky (Rick) Hanson of Tucson, AZ; Kent (Cora) Carroll-Collins of Chico; Todd(Yvonne) Carroll of Chico; Deborah (Greg) Stokes of Placerville; Chuck (Kathy) Carroll of Chico; Brandi Laffins of Chico; and stepson Bret Hawley of Colville, WA. Charlie was also blessed with 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. He was known for his quick wit, kind heart, and the way he made everyone feel like an old friend. Charlie had countless friends and an even bigger extended family—people drawn to his humor, loyalty ,and warmth. A favorite time of day was 4 o’clock“ Tuesday Tea Time” at the Elks Lodge, where stories were shared, laughter was plenty, and everyone felt welcome at his table. Charlie was preceded in death by his three brothers, Watson Carroll, Kenneth Carroll, and Eugene Carroll, all of Missouri. He is survived by his wife, children and Yorkie “Ollie”, cousins Marvin White ,Roger and Lance Marshall of Chico, nieces and nephews in Missouri. Brother-in-law Larry (Lois)Burks, Gridley, Sister-in-law Dianna (Ron) Fargen, Idaho and close friend, Barbara McPherson, Chico. The family would like to thank the countless friends, neighbors and Butte Home Health and Hospice for their help and support. He leaves behind a legacy of friendship, creativity, and community spirit that will continue to inspire those who knew him .A celebration of life will be held at the Chico Elks Lodge November 18, from 4:00–7:00 p.m.. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Chico Elks Lodge Charity Fund. Arrangements are entrusted to Brusie Funeral Home.