Charles Delano Heinlen

Charles D. (Chuck) Heinlen, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on August 6, 1935, in Okanogan, Washington, he was the son of Charles B. and Teresa Heinlen, who preceded him in death. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rita, and is survived by his two sons, Charles M. Heinlen and Jeff Heinlen (Erica). He was the proud grandfather to Lauren, Randall, Jessica and Megan. He was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Morgan and Colin Heinlen. He grew up on a cattle ranch south of Okanogan and spent long hours with his dad, working the cattle and growing hay. He particularly loved working out on the rangeland. After high school, he was drafted into the military and was stationed in Germany. When his father fell ill, he received a hardship discharge and took over the ranch. After his father passed, he lovingly took care of his mom. He married Rita Heinlen in 1963 and together they kept the cattle, hay, and orchard running. He lovingly supported Rita in her many pursuits and cared for her through her illness and passing. He worked various jobs, including wheat harvest around Almira, landing at Okanogan Growers Union where he worked for decades until going to work for the City of Okanogan, retiring from the waste treatment plant. He was active in the community, serving one term as the Okanogan Cattlemens president, multiple terms on the Okanogan School Board, and was active in the Catholic Church. He was a resolute and humble man who lived a life of faith, family and quiet simplicity. He will be deeply missed by his family and his community. Funeral services: A viewing and rosary will be held at 5pm on Sunday August 9, 2026, at River Valley Funeral Home (2547 Elmway, Okanogan Washington). A funeral service will be held at 1 pm on August 10, 2026, at Our Lady of the Valley Parish (2511 Elmway St, Okanogan WA). Interment will follow at the Riverside City Cemetery after the funeral mass. A reception will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Parish following the Interment. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Chuck’s name may be made to a charity of your choice.

Charles Delano Heinlen

August 6, 1935 - July 13, 2026