Charles Mortensen Obituary

October 18, 1924 - October 26, 2023 Charles Richard Mortensen met his goal to reach 99 years young, capping a wonderful life with family, service, and travel. Lee, his brother, and Martha (Marty) his wife, partner and love of 77+ years, predeceased him. With Marty, they guided their 2 children: Charles W. (Maria) and Ann (Tom); 7 grandchildren: Charles M. (Bienna), Cathleen (Brad), TJ (Tiffany), Kimberly (Warren), Jill (Josh), Molley (Paul) and John (Piikea); and 22 great-grandchildren in a loving, principled life.

Born 1924 in Hollywood, Dad spent his school years in Van Nuys. A UCLA enrollee, he was drafted in the Army and served from 1943-46 in the 42nd Rainbow Infantry Division and occupation forces. After landing in France, he crossed the Rhine and completed his tour in Bavaria. He earned the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star and WW2 French Order of Honor award.

In 1950, Dad completed his education at UCLA. He was a LAUSD teacher, counselor, vice principal, principal, and Director of Operations and Instruction. He was a member of state and national associations: serving on the Junior High/Middle School Committee of the National Association of Secondary School Administrators; consulting the Los Angeles Region 16 Association of California School Administrators; and helping to form the Association of Los Angeles Administrators. Dad was a West Valley YMCA Camp Director, an Eagle Scout and Rotarian.

Charles and Marty both taught, so they travelled extensively during the summer. They loved Mammoth, the West Coast, Europe, South and Central America. They were supporting members of the Northridge United Methodist Church.

It's tough to pigeonhole Dad; he was a sharp wit and fierce competitor in bridge, tennis, and golf. Dad was a dedicated friend; loving husband and father, and beloved grandfather and great-grandfather.