Charles Robert Abate

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles Robert Abate, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Charles was born on November 15, 1940, in Rockford, Illinois, to Carl Abate and Vera Akins. He departed this world peacefully in his own home on July 31, 2026, at the age of 85. Charles was a man of many talents and passions, who touched the lives of all who knew him. He was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Vera Abate, and cherished family members Nancy Rowell, Anne Coslett, Thomas Coslett, C.P. Rowell, Roberta Douglas, and Rosemary Bourne. His legacy of kindness and humor lives on in his surviving family: his brother Carl Abate and sister-in-law Darlynn Abate, his devoted daughters Jennifer Abate-Martinez and Rebecca Abate, and his precious granddaughter Cambria Muratalla. Charles met and married the love of his life, Darlene Bennett Abate, on December 18, 1977. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, raising two beautiful daughters, Jennifer Diane and Rebecca Linn. Their marriage was a testament to unwavering love and partnership. A proud graduate of Riverside Poly High School in California, Class of 1958, Charles went on to serve his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1959 to 1963, continuing in the Air Force Reserve until 1965. His dedication to service extended into his career with the California Department of Corrections from 1982 until his retirement in 2004. Charles was a man who lived life with gusto. He was a dedicated sports fan, always eager to watch a high school football game with his nephew "little" Carl or host an eventful Fight Night. His love for music, particularly Classic Rock, often filled the family home as he sang along while tidying up. Charles cherished his time in his "Man shed," where he tinkered with tools, always ready for a project from Darlene. Despite his laid-back nature, Charles had a larger-than-life personality, known for his kindness, humor, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. He was a man who could light up a room with a joke or a song, earning him the love and admiration of all who knew him. A memorial service to honor and celebrate Charles's life will be held on August 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Wiefels and Son, located at 50 E Nicolet Street, Banning, CA 92220. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Charles's memory. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that Charles is reunited with his beloved Darlene. To Charles, from your family: "We hope you're up there having the best time now that you're back with our momma! We love and miss you very much. This is not a 'goodbye' but 'see you later, alligator.' Love you, Daddy-O."