Charles Stephen Donchatz

Charles Stephen “Bud” Donchatz, 84, of Columbia SC, fell asleep for the last time on Friday, November 17, 2023. Bud was born to Charles and Violet Donchatz in Kimball, West Virginia on September 9th, 1939—according to him the “best year in history.” He graduated from Welch High School in 1957 and after attending West Virginia University, he joined the United States Air Force where he served overseas in Paris. After returning to the States with a cherry red, convertible Triumph, Bud pulled up to the Sterling Drive-in in Welch, WV and found the love of his life, Carolyn Sharousky. 1964 would be the beginning of a nearly 60-year marriage. Charles was a soldier, an artist, a golfer, a collector, a C.P.A., a Gamecock, a husband, a father, a Boompa, and, most importantly, he was a “Buddy” to anyone who needed one. His life was one of excitement, adventure, love, and lots of laughter. He earned his pilot's license at 17, played the guitar, ran a business, instructed at Bluefield State, was a talented artist, a witty comic, and had a magnetic soul. There was nothing Bud could not do.

Predeceased by his wife, Carolyn Sharousky, but survived by his daughters Monica Donchatz Miller and Stephanie Donchatz Oberempt, (son-in-law Michael Oberempt), and grandchildren: Alexandra, Kathryn, Adam, and Matthew, Bud’s joie de vivre will last generations.

Funeral services will be held at 1 o’clock p.m. on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at Cravens-Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell, West Virginia followed by burial at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Princeton, West Virginia. Minister Rick Mathena will officiate. Military honors will be performed by the Mercer County Veterans Honor Guard.

Friends and family are welcome. Visitation will be prior to services, from 12:00-1:00 PM at the funeral home.