Obituary of Charles Lee Preston

Charles Lee Preston was born November 28, 1946, Thanksgiving Day in Brady Texas to Clive Alonzo and Violet Elizabeth Preston. He was known to family and childhood friends as Charlie and later in life to others as Chuck. 

Charlie grew up in a ranching and farming environment.  He worked the land and livestock along with his dad and brothers.  He would fondly recount detailed stories of adventures with his brothers, hunting dogs, hard work, family time and wide-open spaces.

Chuck worked most of his life as a truck driver.  He started out driving for other companies until he was able to get his own rig and became an owner operator.  Chuck was a skilled driver.  No load was too big or delivery location too far for him.  He drove hauling product and equipment associated with the petroleum industry.  In his travels he was able to see much of the United States, Canada, and Alaska.  After selling his rig he continued to drive for several different companies but finally settled into work in the oil fields running hot shot deliveries for a drilling company.  Chuck finally retired for Ensign Trucking in 2014.

Chuck loved the outdoors and would often take time to stop and just take in the beauty of nature.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing.  There was always wild game in the freezer.  He would host a fish-fry every summer to share the catch that he had stored up.  He was a sports fan and supported all the local teams.  You could strike up a conversation with him about most any sport.

Chuck is preceded in death by his father Alonzo Preston, mother Violet Preston, brothers Ross Preston, Robin Preston, John Preston, James Preston, David Preston, and Ike Preston, by his sister Jo Preston, as well as wife Virginia Preston.

Chuck is survived by his sister Jeannie Hejny, daughters Nan Vaughan, Marie Noland, Dawnetta Gosch and Tina Lyons, eight grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild, and wife Jan Preston.  Many others considered him a second father and grandpa. 

Chuck was hardnosed and at times a bit narrow minded.  It was usually his way or the highway.  He did not have a problem putting you in your place if he thought you were out of line or “acting too big for your britches”.  Chuck would also be the first to offer you the shirt off his back and food from his table.  He loved to visit and had the gift of gab in both English and Spanish.  He had a soft spot for animals and loved children.  Chuck was old fashion and did not have much use for fancy high-tech things.  He lived a simple life, he loved his family and friends, and he was respected by his neighbors and co-workers.

Whether it is Chuck or Charlie he will be greatly missed.  Any who knew him will always cherish his child like smile, gruff outer shell, and his big loving heart.