With profound sadness, our family announces the passing of Charles L. “Charlie” Maude on June 7, 2026, surrounded by family in his longtime Lee’s Summit home.

Yet even in our grief, our hearts are filled with gratitude. We were blessed to know Charlie as a husband, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and, above all, a friend. He leaves a void that can never truly be filled, but he also leaves us with countless memories of his kindness, honesty, integrity, patience, and gentle spirit.

Charlie was born on October 29, 1941, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Charles and Louise Maude. A lifelong Kansas Citian, he grew up in a duplex among relatives one being his cousin and close friend, George Stimpfel. Charlie attended Cathedral School and Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School before graduating from Bishop Hogan High School. A gifted athlete, he captained the 1959 Catholic League Basketball Championship team.

Although he loved basketball, golf would become his lifelong passion. Shortly after high school, Charlie began working for TWA as a clerk and soon as a printer, launching a career that would span 37 years. He retired in 1996 at the age of 55.

In 1961, Charlie married the love of his life, Judy. Together, they built a remarkable marriage that lasted 65 years and served as a model of mutual respect, devotion, and partnership. They made their home in Raytown, where they raised their three children on Maple Street. As devoted Catholics and active members of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Charlie and Judy built lasting friendships that endure to this day. Even in their later years, they maintained close relationships with classmates from their Bishop Hogan days.

Charlie took tremendous pride in his family. In fact, he rarely missed an opportunity to tell others about them—sometimes even complete strangers.

Did Charlie ever meet a stranger? Those who knew him would probably say no.

Charlie was a natural conversationalist who could walk into any gathering—often a neighborhood bar—and within minutes make everyone feel like an old friend. He cherished simple pleasures: a good drink, good conversation, and the company of others. Quick with a joke and famous for what family members affectionately called “Charlieisms,” he delighted in telling stories that often contained just enough embellishment to leave listeners wondering what was fact and what was fiction. If you knew Charlie well, you learned to watch for the slight smirk that revealed he was having a little fun at your expense.

Beneath his playful nature was a sharp and thoughtful mind. Charlie possessed a natural talent for golf, cards, and horse racing. He was patient, and remarkably disciplined. Whether on the golf course or at the card table, he had a knack for coming out ahead, often relieving his opponents of a few dollars—only to buy them a drink afterward. More than one person likely found themselves wondering if they had just been bamboozled.

Golf remained one of Charlie’s greatest joys throughout his life. Though he rarely practiced, he routinely posted scores that many golfers would envy and proudly recorded two holes-in-one. He respected the traditions and integrity of the game and expected others to do the same. During the years he spent raising his family, Charlie largely set golf aside, typically playing only once a week. After retirement, however, he returned to the game with enthusiasm, serving as a marshal and playing Shamrock Golf Course four and sometimes five times a week.

Charlie enjoyed cruising and modest gambling. He seemed to possess an uncanny luck at blackjack and poker, often finding a winning card exactly when he needed it. Cruises, in particular, provided the perfect setting for his outgoing personality. Over the course of 20 cruises, Charlie transformed countless strangers into friends.

Another lifelong passion was horse racing. He frequented tracks in Omaha during racing’s heyday and enjoyed visits to Keeneland Race Course while spending time with his daughter Debbie and her family in Kentucky. One of his greatest thrills was attending the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs.

For the past 37 years, Charlie and Judy made their home in Lee’s Summit, where they were active members of Our Lady of the Presentation Parish. Charlie generously volunteered in numerous ministries, including welcoming new parishioners, assisting with funeral luncheons, and transporting elderly parish members. He was also a proud Third Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Yet Charlie’s greatest legacy was not found in his accomplishments, hobbies, or volunteer work. It was found in the quiet strength of his character and in the enduring love he shared with Judy. Through life’s joys, challenges, and heartbreaks, they demonstrated unwavering faith, commitment, and grace. Their marriage set an example for all who knew them.

Charlie lived a life grounded in faith, humility, and service. He walked a path guided by the values found in the Book of Proverbs, and we take comfort in knowing that God’s faithful servant has now returned home.

So, friends, the next time you find yourself gathered with family or friends, pour a shot of vodka, share a favorite Charlie story, and raise a toast in his honor. Chances are, you will never meet another person quite like Charlie Maude—and that’s exactly how he would want to be remembered.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Judy; daughters Susan (Jim) and Debbie (Jeff); son David Scott (Kim); grandchildren Cassie, Kyla, Logan, Sophie, Alyssa, Lukas, Clara, Chloe, Madison, and McKenzie; and four great-grandchildren and one on the way. Also survived by siblings Carolyn (Don), Sharon, and Rick (Sheri).

Services will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Our Lady of the Presentation Church, 130 NW Murray Road, Lee’s Summit, Missouri. The Rosary will begin at 9:45 a.m., followed by visitation at 10:00 a.m. and Mass at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the Mass.

Charlie will be interred at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Boulevard, Raytown, Missouri, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City, 2502 Cherry Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64108.