Charles "Chuck" Roger Freiss

Charles Roger Freiss (“Chuck”)

March 5, 1949 - June 20, 2026

Charles Roger Freiss, “Chuck” passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, in Seattle, Washington on June 20, 2026.

Chuck was born on March 5, 1949, in Newport News, Virginia, to Elwood and Edna Freiss. He was the oldest of five children and a loving big brother to Fred Freiss, Pat Freiss (deceased), Bonnie Clark and Bennie Freiss.

The family moved to Seattle in 1956, where they raised their five children in a small home in Ballard. Chuck graduated from Ballard High School in 1967. He volunteered for the U.S. Army in 1969 during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Alaska, where he trained as an Army weather observer, studying weather patterns and collecting atmospheric data- a role that perfectly suited his lifelong curiosity and love of science. He never lost his curiosity, often quizzing family members about science facts, especially the speed of light.

After attending Perry Technical Institute and graduating with a degree in HVAC service and installation, Chuck built a long and respected career as an HVAC technician and proudly belonged to Local 66 throughout his working life. He worked on many buildings throughout the Seattle area, which he loved to point out to his family whenever he got the chance.

In 1972, Chuck married his former wife, Marsha (Morrison). They welcomed their eldest daughter, Marli, in 1973 and in 1976, their youngest daughter, Chelsa, was born. The family relocated from Yakima to the Olympia / Lacey area in 1979. He was an incredibly loving and devoted father, even opening his home to his daughters' friends whenever they needed a safe place to land. His daughters called him Papa and he lived up to the name.

In 1993 he met Terri (Campbell) and they married in 1994. Chuck devoted himself to building a loving life with her. Chuck embraced Terri’s young daughters, Melissa and Amanda, as his own. He treated them with the same unyielding love and support he had always shown his children.

One of the greatest delights in Chuck’s life was being Papa to his six grandchildren; Hannah Backman, Landen Backman, Marvin Freiss, Van Freiss, Stellan Abbott and Maya Abbott. He loved to watch them play sports and celebrate their accomplishments and birthdays.

When he was younger, Chuck also enjoyed riding his Harley and working on his small collection of vintage Mopar vehicles. He loved making legendary breakfasts, hosting barbecues and watching the Mariners and Seahawks play. He enjoyed traveling around the Western U.S. with his wife, Terri, in their motor home. He also loved cozy afternoons, cuddling with his dog, Libby, or his multiple “granddogs” over the years. Chuck spent many days fishing with his father-in-law on the Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Chuck was also sober for over thirty-seven years, which was an amazing accomplishment he was quite proud of.

Chuck was honest, dependable, and approached life with unflinching open-mindedness and humor. His family and friends knew they could call him at any hour, and he would be there without hesitation. His kindness, generosity, and quiet strength shaped the lives of everyone who knew him. Chuck “Papa” will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to know and love him. His legacy of love lives on in the family he cherished.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife, Terri (Campbell) Freiss; his daughters, son-in-laws and grandchildren, Marli Freiss (Sean, Marvin, Van), Chelsa Backman (Robert, Hannah, Landen), Melissa Okonek, Amanda Okonek (Shane Abbott, Stellan, Maya); his siblings, in-laws, nieces and nephews Fred Freiss (Lisa), Bennie Freiss (Tina, Tony), Bonnie Clark (Dennis, Kevin, Kristy); and in-laws Edward Campbell, Laurie McLucas (Ryan), and Scott Campbell (Katie, Connie, Daniel).

Per Chuck’s wishes, the family will host a celebration of his life on September 6, 2026 at Burfoot Park in Olympia, WA. His ashes will be spread on the Columbia River in a private service with immediate family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or your local food bank if you wish.