Charles J McCollum Jr.

Charles (Charlie) J. McCollum Jr. of North Port, Florida, passed away on August 6, 2026, of natural causes. He was preceded by his beloved wife, Kathleen McCollum (nee Hughes), and his parents, Charles J McCollum Sr. and Dorothy McCollum (nee Crawford).

Charlie was born on December 2, 1945, in Philadelphia, PA. He was the oldest of four brothers. Charlie graduated from Monsignor Bonner Catholic High in Drexel Hill, PA. He continued his education at Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Sciences and graduated in 1971, becoming a registered pharmacist. Charlie had a lifelong career as a pharmacist in Pennsylvania and Florida until he retired.

Charlie met the love of his life, Kathy, at the age of 16. They spent 10 years together before they married on July 26, 1969. Together they raised their two children in Middletown, PA, and Mount Gretna, PA. In 1996, they moved to North Port, FL, so they could pursue their passion for sailing on Charlotte Harbor and enjoying the warm Florida sunshine.

While attending college, Charlie enlisted in the United States Army Reserve. This led to a 23-year career, including an enlistment in the Air National Guard, and a commission as an officer in the United States Army Reserves. Charles participated in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. He retired from serving his country in 1991.

Charlie was well known throughout Southwest Florida as Santa Charlie. He listened to thousands of local children’s wishes during the Christmas holiday season. He loved playing a special role in the festive season.

Charlie had so many friends and was beloved by his extended family. He will be greatly missed. Charles will be interred at the Sarasota National Cemetery and details of the service will be shared in the near future.

Charlie is survived by his daughter, Colleen McCollum of Houston, TX; son, Charles (Chad) J. McCollum III (Amy McCollum) of Sarasota, FL; two grandsons, Seamus A. McCollum and Gabriel L. McCollum; and brothers Dennis, James, and Paul.