In Loving Memory of Charles “Charlie” Tanner Jr.: Tonawanda Mourns the Sudden Loss of a Cherished Young Life
Tonawanda, NY — It is with heavy hearts and immense grief that the community of Tonawanda shares the news of the sudden and tragic passing of Charles “Charlie” Tanner Jr., a beloved son, friend, and neighbor, who lost his life following an unforeseen accident at home. Charlie, just 24 years old, passed away after suffering a sudden health episode attributed to epilepsy—an unpredictable condition he had quietly managed for years.
On the evening of his passing, Charlie was home when the medical episode occurred. Despite immediate emergency response and efforts to revive him, he tragically succumbed to the effects of the seizure. His sudden death has left his family, friends, and the wider community devastated, as they try to make sense of losing someone so full of life, humor, and kindness.
Charlie was more than a name—he was a light to those who knew him. A graduate of Tonawanda High School, Charlie was known for his radiant smile, quick wit, and caring nature. Whether volunteering at local events, helping neighbors, or simply being the friend who always showed up, he embodied the kind of warmth that made others feel instantly at ease.
He was passionate about technology and had recently begun working as a junior IT technician, eager to make his mark in a field he loved. Charlie’s enthusiasm was contagious—he was the type of person who’d spend hours fixing a neighbor’s computer without expecting anything in return, simply because he could and he cared.
His family describes him as someone who “saw the good in everyone and never turned his back on a friend in need.” He was also a staunch advocate for epilepsy awareness, hoping to one day become a voice for those navigating the challenges of living with the condition. Charlie’s life, while tragically cut short, continues to inspire conversations about epilepsy and the urgent need for greater understanding and support for those affected.
In honor of Charlie’s memory, his family is establishing a memorial fund to support epilepsy education and assistance programs locally. They hope his legacy will not only bring awareness to the condition that took his life but also help others who are living with it.
A public memorial service will be held at the Tonawanda Community Center on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 2:00 PM, where friends, family, and community members will gather to celebrate Charlie’s life. Attendees are encouraged to wear something purple—the color of epilepsy awareness—in Charlie’s honor.
Charles “Charlie” Tanner Jr. may no longer be with us in person, but the impact he had, the lives he touched, and the love he spread will live on. He leaves behind his parents, Charles Sr. and Denise Tanner, his sister Emily, and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will never forget his kind soul.
As the Tonawanda community mourns this painful loss, we remember Charlie for who he was—a beacon of light, a giver of joy, and a young man who lived with compassion and purpose. Rest in peace, Charlie. You will always be remembered.
