Retired Colonel Charles L Goforth III passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 24, 2015, on Vashon Island, Washington. He was born in Seattle on March 9, 1929 and graduated from Lowell High School in San Francisco, CA. Chuck was a Cadet Colonel in ROTC at the College of Puget Sound and an active member of Theta Chi fraternity. He graduated with a BA degree in 1954 as a Second Lt. in the United States Air Force.

Chuck and Joanne Ruth Olson were married by Rev. Dr. R Franklin Thompson in the College Chapel in 1954 and soon left for Radar Observer Training in Texas. After a year in Houston and various stations, he was sent to Portland, Oregon with the 460th FIS. His next orders were flying in F89 jets overseas in Thule, Greenland for approximately one year, leaving his wife with a son on the way and two daughters. At Griffiss AFB, he flew the new F-101B Interceptor with the 465th. Chuck's next overseas assignment was to the Philippines where he commanded two aircraft maintenance squadrons. From there he moved to Charleston AFB, SC where he was a navigator in C-141s. A year later, he served at Scott AFB, Illinois as the Chief of Avionics Division until selected to head the MA Logistics at Oson AB in Korea. In July of 1975, Chuck was chosen for Air War College in Montgomery, AL. His last assignment before retiring was as Director of Equipment, Electronics, Electronic Warfare and Munitions at Air Force Logistics Command in Dayton, Ohio. Through his 31 years in the service, Chuck received many awards and honors, including: Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with One Oak Leaf Cluster, AF Commendation Medal with One Oak Leaf Cluster, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, AF Longevity Service Ribbon with Five Oak Leaf Clusters, National Service Defense Service Medal with One Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnam Service Medal with Seven Bronze Service Stars, AF Outstanding Unit Award with Three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Legion of Merit.

Chuck retired at age 50 to his favorite location which was "The Cabin" in Dockton, WA. He was a loyal member of the Golf and CC for over 30 years, with various positions including President. He enjoyed golf, traveling and was an avid boater and member of the Quarter Master Yacht Club. Chuck was particularly proud of his 1973 Chris Craft, spending as much time as possible on the water ways of Puget Sound.

To his family, Chuck leaves many treasured memories of the various places they experienced together. His priority was designated family time on Sundays; boating on the closest, lake or river. Chuck's legacy is his honor, integrity, perseverance, loyalty, and honesty. He is survived by his two half brothers, Peter (Lavona) and Stuart (Alise) Goforth; former wife Joanne O Goforth; children Gail M Gourley (Paul), Gwen C Goforth (Jon Andvick), Greg L Goforth (Anne O'Brien), Ginger G Simmons (Mike); grandchildren Bethany Parkyn, Brianna Parkyn, Jordan Parkyn, Jenny Parkyn, Cheryl Gourley, Brett Gourley; and his dear companion of 12 years, Nanny Berry. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

A Graveside service with full Military Honors will be held Tuesday June 30, 2015 at 11am at the Vashon Cemetery 19631 Singer Road SW Vashon, WA. 98070. Followed by a reception at the Vashon Golf and Swim Club at 12:30.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Chuck's name may be made to Providence Hospice of Seattle, Vashon Hospice Team, 425 Pontius Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98109.