Charles 'Chas' Stewart Cartwright, 72
Charles “Chas” Stewart Cartwright passed away on Sept. 24, 2022, at the age of 72 in Cortez, Colorado. His characteristic grit and strength shone through as he battled serious medical issues. While he finally succumbed to his health challenges, he was able to find relief surrounded by some of his loved ones at the time of his passing.
Chas had the perfect career because he could combine his love for the outdoors, fitness and environmental advocacy through 40 years of service! After he got his degree in archeology from Michigan State in 1972, he headed west to pursue his dream.
He started as a fire lookout, river ranger and firefighter. He became the first permanent archaeologist at Natural Bridges National Monument, as well as at Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. His career also included superintendent positions at Hovenweep National Monument, Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, Devils Tower National Monument, Dinosaur National Monument, Shenandoah National Park and Glacier National Park.
He was also the acting superintendent at Carlsbad Caverns National Park and National Bridges National Monument. He additionally served as the associate to the deputy director of the National Park Service in Washington, D.C.
One of his proudest achievements was leading and spearheading the creation of the Glacier National Park Conservancy, which has successfully funded multiple projects to strengthen and protect the environment.
He enjoyed biking, skiing, swimming, hiking and kayaking with his family and friends. Being the athlete he was, he also competed in triathlons and won many events. His great (and yes, sometimes silly) sense of humor will be missed. He was always up for a good laugh!
Chas met the love of his life, Lynda, when she bought a kayak from him. That purchase turned into so much more! As they say, the rest is history! During their 32-plus years of marriage, they lived all over the U.S. enjoying their outdoor adventures and meeting great people along the way.
Chas is survived by his wife, Lynda Stocks; his son John Visser (Sara) and daughter Monique McDermott (Patrick); six grandchildren, Tyson, Jordan (Sydney), Logan (Sierra), Sydney (Ethan), Jackson and London; and by two great-granddaughters, Sloane and Shiloh. He is also survived by his sister, Lynn Cartwright; and his uncle, Bill Cartwright (Sandy).
A celebration of life with his family will happen at a future date not yet determined.