Charles Conrad “Chuck” Niehues passed away February 18. He is survived by his longtime partner, Judie Freeman, son, Cory (Darlee), brother, Richard (Lisa), sister, Cheryl Britt (Michael), and his beloved Australian Shepherd, Bundee. Known as “Uncle Chuck,” he is also survived by many nieces and nephews who will attest to his talent for good natured teasing (appreciated by them only after becoming adults) and a bottomless collection of synonyms for the word “rugrat.” After graduating from Tigard High School, Chuck went to work with his dad as a union carpenter. Later, he would work for his father-in-law, Bob Staggenborg, who taught him how to sheetrock. Chuck went on to establish his own drywall company and earned a reputation for fairness and quality work.
Chuck loved to camp and fish. He also loved to ride his motorcycle. He was very proud of his Harley that he eventually parked in his dad’s shop where his nephews would sit on it and pretend to ride. These were memorable years for Chuck and provided him with a lifetime of colorful stories. Many of those stories had sequels that his brother loves to tell, and the sequels are no less colorful.
Chuck had many friends and like his father, he was genuinely interested in others. He made an effort to see people and stayed in contact with friends who would otherwise drift away. It seemed his gregariousness and off the wall sense of humor, opened doors for him, and wherever he went he had a friend. Having lived in the area for all of his 70 years, he was never more than a few degrees of separation from anyone.
Chuck was a unique free spirit who did things his own way and was never afraid to admit it. While he will be forever missed, the legend of Uncle Chuck will be handed down for generations, and he will never be forgotten.