Chuck Medina

E.G. “Chuck” Medina passed away peacefully at the VA Mountain View Living Center, surrounded by his family, on February 14, 2024. Chuck was born on November 15, 1933, in Riverton, WY. 

At age 15, Chuck needed to escape his home life. He lied about his age and joined the United States Army. At 16, he was sent to serve in the Korean War where he fought at Heartbreak Ridge, the Baldy Confrontation, and the Chosin Reservoir. He sustained multiple injuries that led to an Honorary Discharge. He received many medals for his bravery, including two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. Chuck returned to the States in July 1952. 

On November 15, 1952, he married Ruth Martin (yes, they got married on his birthday so he would never forget the date). They brought two children into this world; a son Alan and a daughter JoAnn. They remained married for 72 years. 

Chuck spent 35 years on the road driving for North American VanLines. He received 30 years of awards from the company for safe driving and 1,000,000 miles. Chuck retired from trucking in 1998 and returned home to Sheridan, WY. In 2000, the town of Meeteetse, WY presented him with an honorary High School Diploma. 

Chuck was a lifetime member of the American Legion and Elks. He was a local and state leader for Wyoming Chapter 6 DAV, where he spent time as commander. He and Ruth spent many days volunteering for the local VA and making milkshakes for the “boys.” 

The two loved traveling together, especially to gamble. He enjoyed watching his great-grandchildren in their various activities and was the patriarch of the family’s love for Disney. 

He will always be remembered as the glue that held the family together. He was an amazing dad, but an even better Papa. He loved telling jokes, stories, or anything that would make someone laugh. 

The last 18 months of his life were spent living with his daughter JoAnn, or as he called her “Jody,” and at Mountain View Living Center where he received exceptional care and love. Three days before his death, he was presented with a Quilt of Valor for the sacrifice and service he gave to his country.

He is survived by his wife Ruth, son Alan (Diane), and daughter JoAnn Barker. His five grandchildren that he adored; Heather Medina, Mandy (Jason) Leach, Julie Barker, Cameron (Vanessa) Medina, and Andrew Hoogeboom. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Austin Medina, Mollie “Mo”, Chance and Chelsie “Blondie” Morris, Cole and Ty Leach, and Liam and Lucas Medina. He also has one sister, Judy Lewis. 

He is preceded in death by his sisters, Susie, Patsy, and Loretta,  brothers Frankie, Victor, and Pete, and son-in-law Mike Barker. 

The family would like to express their gratitude to everyone who left a mark on Chuck’s life. We hope you carry on the jokes and stories that he has shared with you.

A viewing will be held at 10:30 a.m. with a celebration of life and military honors at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Kane Funeral Home. Pastor Scott Lee will be officiating. A reception will follow in the Kane reception hall.

In place of flowers, please make donations to the Sheridan VA volunteer services, earmarked for Mountain View Living Center.

Online condolences may be written at www.kanefuneral.com. Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.