Charles “Chuck” Buettner passed away peacefully yesterday at the age of 79, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Chonie Buettner. Together, Chuck and Chonie were pillars of the local education community for many years as the owners of Carden School of Stockton, where they helped shape the lives of countless students and families.

A dedicated educator, Chuck also spent over 40 years as a PE teacher with Stockton Unified School District, mentoring generations of students who still remember him fondly. Even in retirement, he remained deeply involved in the community—cherishing time with his grandchildren, serving as a docent at the Haggin Museum, and continuing his passion for track and field. For more than 50 years, he played an integral role as a starter, organizer & mentor in cross country and track & field at various levels all over California.

Chuck’s contributions were widely recognized, earning him induction into both the Stockton Hall of Fame and the Sac-Joaquin Section Hall of Fame. He was also an avid bowler and served as a director for the Stockton Men’s Bowling Association in the early 1990s.

He was beloved by so many and will be deeply missed by his daughters Julie and Amy, his four grandchildren, and Karen, his loving partner of 10 years, along with the countless lives he touched throughout the community.

The family is currently raising funds to host a celebration of life and to help cover final expenses. Any additional proceeds will be donated in Chuck’s honor to USATF and the Haggin Museum, organizations that were especially meaningful to him.