Charles Upole

Charles David Upole, 68, of Oakland, passed away on December 8, 2024, at JW Ruby Memorial Hospital. Born on December 1, 1956, in Oakland, he was the son of the late Thomas and Vauda "Minnie" (Bolyard) Upole.

After attending Southern Garrett High School, he served his country in the United States Army National Guard. Charles worked as a sales manager at John F Martin and Yoder's Meats, where he was known for his dedication and leadership, qualities he also brought to his community through his involvement in youth sports. He was deeply invested in coaching Little League Baseball, where he not only shared his love for the game but also shaped young lives with his wisdom and encouragement. He was notably the President of the Oakland Little League during his earlier years, contributing significantly to the local youth's love for baseball. His commitment to sports extended to his unwavering support for the San Francisco Giants, the Buffalo Bills, and WVU Athletics. Charles was a walking encyclopedia of sports knowledge, often regaling friends and family with tales of legendary players, historical statistics, and iconic moments in sports history. He loved attending his grandchildren's ballgames and attending WVU games with his daughter. After retirement, he worked part time for the Alpine Lake Resort in Terra Alta as a security guard.

He is survived by his children, Kristopher Upole and partner Carrie Wilson, Erica LaRue and husband Tony, and Ryan Upole and wife Kari; three grandchildren, Mason and Madison Upole, and Amber Hebb and husband Toby; four siblings, Margaret Landon and husband Richard, Harold Upole and wife Judy, Linda Dawson and husband Lawrence, and Donald Upole and wife Shelly; and a host of nephews, nieces, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Tommy Upole and his nephew, Robbie Upole.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Southern Garrett Athletic Association, 345 Oakland Drive, Oakland, MD 21550, or the Oakland Youth Baseball League, PO Box 213, Oakland, MD 21550.

Friends will be received on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 2 to 3 PM at the C & S Fredlock Funeral Home, P.A., 21 N. Second St., Oakland. A funeral service will be held at 3 PM in the funeral home with Pastor Donald Upole officiating. A gathering to celebrate his life will be held immediately after the service at Alpine Lake Resort.

The C & S Fredlock Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Upole family.