Obituary of Charles William Byard

Charles "Chuck" William Byard Born April 28, 1940 in Bloomingdale, Ohio. Died May 8, 2011 in Tacoma, Washington. Our wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 8th. Chuck is survived by his wife of 46 years Janet Byard, his daughter Elizabeth Peterson (Ben), his sons Gary (Teresa), and Charlie Byard (Debbie), and grandchildren Greg and Emily Peterson, Kelly and Rick Byard, Adora Welch and Kerry Byard, his brother Jerry Byard, and his sisters Mary Kovalski and Emma Ellen Viola. Chuck served his country for nine years with the army. After marrying Janet and starting a family, Chuck moved to Alaska where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gold panning and camping. Chuck had many trophies from his hunting trips, but his favorite was an Alaskan black bear. In 1974, Chuck brought his family to Tacoma, Washington where he enjoyed volunteering with the Special Olympics for many years, was an active member and officer with the Lakewood Elks Lodge. Chuck was quite the host. He was an excellent cook, and he enjoyed giving to others through his cooking. The meal wasn't complete until Chuck said "there's more over there, I don't want any leftovers". Chuck was a protective and loving father. He worked as a skilled tree surgeon, worked at St. Regis lumber mill, and had his own lawn service. Before retiring, Chuck worked for Sacred Heart Church for 5 years, and in 2004, he became a Catholic. Chuck's battle began in December 2003 with stomach cancer. After he won this battle, Chuck and Janet decided to retire and start traveling. They traded in their home of 30 years for a motor home and began a new journey. Chuck and Janet spent several years traveling and visiting family and friends across the United States. Chuck loved to spend the hot summers in Ohio with his brother from Boston, sisters, and their families. He enjoyed reminiscing about his childhood and the simple pleasure of the local fish sandwiches. When Chuck and Janet would return to Olympia, Washington, he spent his time wood working, serving meals to the homeless, and being with his grandchildren. The grandchildren enjoyed going on trips to Vashon Island, Northwest Trek, roller skating and getting ice cream. After being a lifelong smoker, Chuck found the strength to quit smoking in 2010. Chuck's family was very proud of him. Chuck's spirituality became increasingly important when he found out that he had throat and lung cancer. Chuck and Janet were comforted by their nightly prayers as he endured chemotherapy and radiation treatments. In 2010, as Chuck's health declined, it became very important to him to get Janet settled into a new home in Tacoma. Chuck was surrounded by numerous family and friends who supported him during his final battle. Chuck passed away peacefully and has now earned his eternal reward. Catholic Mass to be held at St. Anns, 7025 S Park Ave, Tacoma,Washington on Friday May 13, 2011 at 11am. Rosary to start at 10:30am. A service will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington on Thursday May 19 at 2pm. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center (253)566-1008