Charles E. Diehl

Charles Eugene Diehl, 82, of Eldora, Iowa passed away on June 27, 2026. A lifelong farmer, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Charles was a large presence (figuratively and literally) who was, at heart, a gentle giant who never knew a stranger. 

Charles was born on February 13, 1944, in Grundy Center, Iowa, to Mae (Waldo) Diehl and Homer Eugene Diehl. He was raised in rural Wellsburg and educated in the Wellsburg schools, graduating from high school in 1962. Following graduation, he attended Iowa State University for one year and then worked at John Deere in Waterloo for another year before returning home to do what he loved most—farming full time. 

On April 24, 1965, Charles married Lois Irene Haupt. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. Charles was a successful grain and livestock farmer who took great pride in his work. Early mornings, long days, and steady perseverance defined his life, and he quietly passed the values of hard work and dedication on to his family by example. He found satisfaction in work done right, a good harvest, and a cold beverage with a cigarette. 

Charles was immensely proud of his three children: Kevin (Joanne) Diehl, Darren (Dawn) Diehl, and Cindy (Al) Yang. He took great joy in watching them build their own lives, and his pride only grew as their families grew. He was never shy in sharing their accomplishments with others. 

Nothing brought Charles more happiness than his grandchildren: Olivia (Andrew) Lawrence, Julia (Connor) Mislivec, Seth (Lauren) Diehl, Sam Diehl, Cade Diehl, Marika (Erik) Yang, and Justine Yang, along with his great-grandchildren, Brooks Lawrence and Emmy Lawrence. 

He rarely missed an activity, game or event, and he never tired of talking about their achievements. Whether cheering them on or lending a hand with a project, Dad/Grandpa was their steady supporter and proudest fan. 

Charlie’s children were always amazed that wherever they went with him—whether a ballgame, restaurant, or hardware store—there always seemed to be someone who knew him. He had a gift for making connections, striking up conversations, and making people feel like friends. 

A man of faith, Charles was a longtime member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Wellsburg. He was also a dedicated member of the Eldora Lions Club for many years, serving in every leadership capacity and giving generously of his time to the community. His social activities over the years also included bowling and softball leagues and Jolly Boys club. An avid supporter of Iowa State sports, Charles cheered faithfully through every season, win or lose, as a Cyclone fan does. At home, he was affectionately named “the cat whisperer” by his grandkids, showing his softer side to any feline that crossed his path. 

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Mae and Homer Diehl, stepfather Dr. Colin Gould; his brother, Dr. Craig Diehl; and granddaughter, Sarah Mae Diehl. He is survived by his wife, Lois, children, grandchildren, great-grands, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, and many friends. 

Charles will be remembered for his strength, friendliness, steady presence, and quiet devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the fields he farmed, the community he served, and the family who will forever carry him in their hearts. 

Visitation with the family will be held July 7th from 4-7 pm at the First Christian Reformed Church, rural Wellsburg Iowa . Funeral services will be held at the same location on July 8, 2026 beginning at 10:30 am, with lunch and a time of fellowship following the service. 

The family would like to extend their deepest and sincerest thanks to the staff of StoryPoint Memory Care in Urbandale, Iowa for their incredible care, professionalism, and true devotion shown to Charlie and the entire family. 

Memorials may be sent directly to the Eldora Lions Club and the Iowa chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association or to the family who will distribute funds to them.