Charles Lewis Bakies Jr.

Charles Lewis Bakies Jr. passed away on May 28, 2025 in Salem, Oregon, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, adventure, and deep love for his family. He was born on December 15, 1946, in Long Beach, California, to Eleanor Amanda Huffman and Charles Lewis Bakies Sr.

After completing school, Charles answered the call to serve his country and joined the U.S. Army. His time in service instilled in him a strong sense of duty and discipline that carried through his life. Shortly after, he met Sandra “Sandi” Kercher, the love of his life, and they were married on January 17, 1975, in Anaheim, California. Together, they built a beautiful life and he was blessed with three children: Michelle, Charles, and David.

Charles dedicated many years to his craft as a metal stud framer with the Northwest Carpenters Union. Outside of his profession, he had a zest for adventure and the great outdoors. He found joy in riding ATVs across the Oregon sand dunes, cruising on his Harley motorcycle, and camping at East Fort Rock. He had a passion for collecting old bottles, finding beauty and history in each piece he gathered. And wherever he went, if there was water, Charles could be found casting a line, indulging in one of his greatest loves fishing.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Sandi Bakies; children, Michelle Adrian Kurban, Charles Robert Bakies, and David Ryan Bakies; grandchildren, Alexis Jean Bakies, Justin Kenneth Dill, Breanna Nichole Bakies, Grace Elaine Bakies, and Madelynn Rose Bakies. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and a brother.

A celebration of life is planned for a later date.