A beloved figure in Onalaska, Wisconsin, Charles W. Deeth, affectionately known as Chuck, passed away at his home on August 21, 2025, at the age of 91.
Chuck is survived by his sons, John (Koni Steele), Brian (Michelle), Jeff (Lauren), and his grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother, Jim, and several friends, students, and players.
His son, John, broke his silence via a lengthy Facebook tribute post, which was flooded with condolences.
Whereas Chuck was preceded in demise by his wife, Carmon Hancock, who passed away in 2024.
Chuck and Carmon tied the knot on August 10, 1957, and were married for 66 years before Carmon took her last breath.
The celebrated coach, teacher, and activities director, Chuck, was born on April 4, 1934, and grew up in Ashland, Wisconsin, where he graduated from Ashland High School in 1952.
He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse in 1956.
Chuck spent 38 years working in education and athletics. He started his career teaching in the Iola-Scandinavia School District for five years.
In 1961, he moved to Onalaska, where he taught subjects like physical education, health, science, drafting, and even driver’s education. One year, he took on the extra duty of driving the school bus.
His passion for sports shone through as he coached football for 27 years, basketball for 20 years, baseball for 12 years, tennis for 5 years, and track for one season. In total, he coached an impressive 65 seasons of one sport or another.
In 1973, Chuck became the Activities Director for the Onalaska School District, and he held the role for 21 years until he retired in 1994.
Thanks to his hard work and dedication, which earned him the Wisconsin Athletic Directors Association LeRoy “Andy” Anderson Award.
He also grabbed the WADA District III Athletic Director of the Year award in 1984.
Similarly, in 2009, Chuck was inducted into the Onalaska High School Hall of Fame as a Teacher, Coach, and Activities Director.
When he retired, the Onalaska School District honored him by naming the field house after him.
Even after retirement, Chuck stayed active, enjoying golf and fishing well into his 80s. He was a loyal fan of the Onalaska Hilltoppers, UW–La Crosse Eagles, Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Green Bay Packers.
Reportedly, a funeral service will be held at First Lutheran Church in Onalaska on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Visitation starts at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m.
The Dickinson Family Funeral Homes & Crematory is handling the arrangements and will share more details soon.
During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of Chuck’s kids, friends, and extended family.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Coach Charles W. Deeth!
