Charles E Runkle

A Celebration of Life service for Charles Runkle, 73, of Enid, will be 2:00 pm Monday, October 5, 2026, at Ladusau-Evans Chapel with Rev. Bobby Hall officiating. Family will receive friends on Sunday, October 4, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Service and cremation arrangements are under the direction of Ladusau-Evans Funeral Home and Crematory.

Charles Edward Runkle 73, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, after a period of declining health, cared for devotedly by his loving wife Karen.

Charles was born on May 15, 1953, in Peoria, Illinois, to Lewis and Helen Runkle. As a child, his family lived and traveled extensively overseas, allowing him to experience many countries and cultures during his formative years. As a teenager, he returned to the United States graduating from Herrin, Illinois, in the mid-1970s.

Following, Charles made his way to Wichita, Kansas, where he met the absolute love of his life, Karen Reyes. Together, they shared 50 beautiful years of marriage and were blessed with a deeply loved family and friends. Charles was a man of complete dedication, giving 110% of himself to his wife, children, and friends.

Known for his impeccable work ethic, Charles served the City of Enid for 37 years before retiring in 2011. Retirement did not slow him down; he went on to own and operate KC Transportation for the next 13 years, hauling wheat until 2024 when his health no longer permitted him to work.

Charles truly cherished the simple joys of life. He loved spending time with his family, deer hunting, watching races on the weekends, and gathering with his kids for Saturday night boxing matches. He also had a great appreciation for his wife's good cooking, a cold beer, good music, and some comedy. Charles brought warmth and respect to everyone he encountered, and his presence will be forever missed by all who knew him.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Helen Runkle; his brother, Roger Runkle; his sister, Marna Wooldridge; and his beloved son, Samuel Runkle.

He leaves behind a rich legacy of love and is survived by his devoted wife, Karen Runkle; his children, Charles "Chuck" Stroud, Edna Reyes, and Taylor Battelo; his cherished granddaughters, Alessandra, Zoe, Emily, Faith, and Samantha; one grandson, Aubrey; two great-granddaughters, Anderson and Charlie Brook; as well as his nieces, nephews, brother-in-law, and many dear friends.

Condolences may be made online and the service may be viewed online at: www.ladusauevans.com.