Charles Larry (Charlie) Gorton, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home, Wednesday July 26, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family and his beloved dogs. Charlie was born July 30, 1941, in Osseo, Wisconsin to parents Doug and Elsie Gorton.

Charlie lived the majority of his life in Eau Claire with his wife Diane where they raised their 4 children. He spent 7 proud years in the United States Army in an Armored Tank Division splitting his time between Berlin, Germany and Fort Carson, Colorado. After his military service he settled in Eau Claire, going to work for Eau Claire Book and Stationery and later acquired his own business, Variety Office Products, along with his partners. He became a successful, well- respected businessman in the Eau Claire area and beyond due to his strong work ethic and a reputation for being honest and fair. He discovered a love for Harley Davidson motorcycles in the mid 1980’s and became a life member of H.O.G in March of 1986, shortly after becoming the 1st director of the Indianhead chapter of H.O.G (Harley owners group). Charlie was also the road captain for Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson governor ride. Charlie loved his country and was also a very strong supporter of his local American Legion, a life member in the VFW and a proud member of the Mehara Shrine Club.

He is survived by his loving wife, Diane, two daughters, Alison (Robert) of Waxahachie, Texas, Sarah (Andy) of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin and a son Charlie (Jennifer) of Marquette, Michigan. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Sebastian Schick, Adriana Calkins, William Schick, Gunnar Gorton, Jacob Gorton, Wyatt Gorton, Elizabeth Calkins, August Calkins and Gavin Gorton. Last but certainly not least he is also survived by his 13 grand dogs whom he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his son Guy, his sister Mary, his brother Danny and his parents Doug and Elsie.

Charlie lived a life of adventure, always curious to see who or what was around the next corner, we were all invited along for the ride and the experience never disappointed. His was a life of purpose filled with laughter, family, friends, and love. Charlie was loved and respected by many and for those of us who were blessed enough to go along for the ride, he will never be forgotten. Hogs, Dogs and Hugs!

There will be a Celebration of Charlie’s life held on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center (1717 Devney Dr, Altoona). Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM and continue until the time of service. A private family burial will be held at a later date at Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.chippewavalleycremation.com.