Memories of Charlie

A Real Gentleman

As we all know, the Ski for Light organization has no shortage of interesting characters in its midst. But Charlie Wirth stands out as extraordinarily interesting. Not just because he doesn't think there's anything noteworthy about a 103 year old blind man skiing. Charlie stands out in that he brings joy to any gathering because he is a real gentleman who genuinely cares about others. It's his sense of humor that also brings us joy. For example, talking about a spill he took off of a tandem bike at the regional event in Pennsylvania, he said it was a "real down-to-earth experience." No whining for Charlie! Ask him his special secret to longevity? His reply: "Just keep breathing." As for his skiing - a guide could not ask for a more ideal participant. He has all the skills required to navigate just about anything. Especially when he hits his bent knee downhill position - very little will upend him. If you're working on technique, he listens intensely and is very coachable. Best of all, his default facial expression while skiing is a joyful grin. He is tenacious. On a long uphill, he might be breathing hard, but won't ask "how much farther?" When he falls, not only does he manage to right himself independently, but the guide is entertained by him swearing in French.

For about 20 years, Charlie has barely missed the Ridderren (Norwegian ski event), and has participated in the international and regional events. Before becoming a ski bum, Charlie was an advertising copywriter in New York City.

Ski For Light has much to celebrate on our 50th anniversary, not the least of which is our own Charlie Wirth, an amazingly inspirational friend!

Obituary for Charles Wirth

Charlie grew up in Brooklyn and spoke fondly of his childhood. From birth he had poor vision which created challenges for him. But Charlie persevered and built a career as a copy editor. By the time Charlie was in his 40s, he had completely lost his sight.

Charlie met Verne Sobeck, the love of his life, and they married in 1958. Verne had served as a Navy nurse in the early 1950s. She was an extraordinarily warm and caring person and together they built a marriage of deep love, respect and affection. Together they traveled the world, taking advantage of Verne's service to take military flights and stay on U.S. military bases for a fraction of what commercial travel would cost. Charlie was always careful with a buck. Verne passed in 1992.

At a time when many would be considering slowing down, Charlie continued to embrace life and embarked on new adventures, meeting new people and developing lifelong friendships. He enjoyed tandem biking and even completed the Five Boro Bike Tour when he was well into his 80s.

Some of Charlie's closest friends in recent years were forged through Ski for Light. Charlie is survived by countless close friends around the world.