Charles Alden Avery, 92, of Escondido, California, passed away on July 3, 2024.
Alden was born on December 6, 1931, to Charles Henry and Lois (Helwig) Avery in Yuma, Arizona. After his family moved to Escondido, Alden attended Escondido Union High School, graduating in 1950. He went on to study at Cal Poly, at both the San Dimas/Pomona and San Luis Obispo campuses. He majored in Animal Husbandry, graduating in 1955, after spending several seasons working in Black Rock, Utah, to put himself through college.
He was drafted into the U.S. Navy and served for two years while stationed in Camp Pendleton, California. He rose to the rank of hospital corpsman 3rd class. Alden was soon employed by San Diego County, Department of Weights and Measures, as an agricultural biologist, for 33 years, retiring in 1992.
In 1960, he met and married Merle Elizabeth Miller, formerly of Ossining, New York. The couple had three children, Brian Charles, Darin Lloyd, and Sherlyn Denise.
Alden enjoyed a rich life before and after retirement. He was member of the First United Methodist Church of Escondido, where he sang in the choir and served on numerous social and work committees. He and Merle enjoyed square dancing, and he was a dedicated father alongside his children’s activities in Indian Guides and Trailblazers, 4-H, sports and music.
By tent, trailer, and motorhome, the family on vacations to the beach, the desert, and many historical and scenic landmarks throughout the west and the entire United States. After retirement, he and Merle crossed the country several times to visit grandchildren and friends. They also visited every continent on numerous sightseeing cruises.
Alden was a lifelong beekeeper, sharing his honey with friends and family. As a bluegrass mandolin player, he attended jam sessions at local bluegrass nights, showing support as musician and fan. He was an avid painter, creating numerous watercolor scenes, many from his world travels.
His interest in history led him to research family genealogy. He also served as a docent for the Escondido Historical Society, sharing his knowledge and experience of life in the area.
Alden is survived by his wife and children, and his seven grandchildren: Charles, Henry, and Miles; Clayton and Cali; and Alexis and Avery.
On October 5, 2024, a service of remembrance was held at his final home, Oakmont Retirement Home, with Reverend Faith Conklin officiating. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, friends remember Alden with a donation to an organization of their choosing.
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