On January 21, 2026, the world lost a truly remarkable man. Charles Phillip Fina—known to all as Chuck or Dr Fina—passed away peacefully at home at the age of 91, surrounded by those who loved him.

Chuck was born in 1934 in Rochester, New York, to Josephine and Giuseppe Fina, the fourth of six children. A rambunctious, energetic boy, he kept his parents two brothers and three sisters constantly on their toes. From an early age, his larger-than-life personality and boundless curiosity were unmistakable.

Chuck attended Edison Technical High School, his math teacher Mr. Palermo was an important mentor and future father-in-law. He then went on to earning his degree from St. John Fisher College, where he met the love of his life, Ann. They married in 1959 and began a life of adventure together, living in Canada and Minnesota while raising five sons. Eventually, they found their true home in Tucson, Arizona, where they welcomed their sixth child, a daughter, and put down lasting roots.

Chuck completed his medical education at the University of Ottawa Medical School in 1964, followed by his orthopedic residency at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, graduating in 1969. That same year, he passed the Arizona Medical Board and began practicing in Tucson, opening his private practice in 1970. A pioneer in arthroscopic techniques, Dr. Fina changed countless lives. Even late in life, his children and grandchildren would run into former patients who would say, “Dr. Fina saved my knee.” He was known not only for his skill, but for his generosity—often treating patients who could not afford care, never hesitating to put people before profit.

In 1973, Chuck and Ann purchased a three-acre horse property that would forever be known as “The Ranch.” It became the heart of family life—a place where forts were built, hide-and-seek was legendary, horses were cared for, softball games filled the pasture, the Buffalo Bills were cheered on and Sunday dinners regularly seated a dozen or more friends, family, and “whoever needed a seat.” Chuck believed deeply in community, hospitality, and shared meals.

Chuck had many passions and was a voracious life-long learner. He loved opera and treasured trips to New York City with Ann to see the Opera and Broadway musicals. He found joy in skiing, golf, and tennis, and was a familiar face on the golf course on Thursday afternoons with his beloved group of friends. Horses held a special place in his heart; for 45 consecutive years, Chuck participated in the Los Charros del Desierto trail ride in southern Arizona. One of his most legendary moments came in the early 1970s when, while out on a trail ride, he diverted to Tucson Medical Center for an emergency surgery—then remounted his horse and finished the ride.

Chuck worked hard and played hard. He shared his love of skiing with his children through countless trips, summers in Pinetop, time spent in Guaymas, Mexico, and travels fueled by his love of the Italian language and culture. At home, he was known for his French onion soup, gazpacho, and famously undercooked pork chops. Chuck was an Arizona Wildcat “Superfan” attending both football and basketball games decade after decade.

His grandchildren—the “Lucky 13”—were the absolute joy of his life. Each had a special, individual bond with their “Abu”. He delighted in their personalities, achievements, and laughter. He will also be deeply missed by his Friday lunch group at the MO Club, a tradition he cherished.

Chuck Fina was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving grandfather, a loyal friend, and a generous physician and a man of deep, enduring faith. He lived boldly, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on Tucson and everyone fortunate enough to know him. The world is better because he was in it—and poorer without him.

Chuck is survived by his six children, Mark, Charlie, David (Shannon), Jim, John (Melissa), and Kristine (Bryan). His grandchildren, Evangeline (Mark); Aidan, Cameron, and Daniel (David); Bella and Bianca (Jim); Mimi, Bruno, Stella, and Roman (John); and Marina, Sam and Alek Shapiro (Kristine). Chuck is also survived by his brothers Joe and Leonard, and many nieces and nephews.