Birth date: Feb 11, 1945 Death date: Jun 1, 2026
It is with deepest sorrow we report the sudden and unexpected passing of our beloved Charles A. Picciano on June 1, 2026 in Fort Myers, Florida. Born February 11, 1945 in Cleveland, raised in Euclid, and lived in Mentor, Ohio befo Read Obituary
Uncle Chocolate was larger than life—in stature, in presence, and in the jokes and laughter he shared with everyone around him. He had the biggest smile, a twinkle in his eye, the warmest hugs and kisses, and a laugh that could light up any room.
One of my favorite memories will always be gently scratching his back with my long fingernails because he loved it so much.
You will be deeply missed, but your big heart, joyful spirit, and the happiness you brought to so many will stay with us always.
Rest peacefully, Uncle Chocolate. We love you so much.
My sister and I have been the luckiest girls to have you as an uncle. You have been a delight and a safe place for us for all of our lives. You made me laugh from my soul, and you saw me for who I was in my heart. I always felt seen, held and loved by you. You gave me my nickname “pie plate” and I will always carry a part of you with me. Your laughter still rings in my heart, and I will never forget the funny jokes you told. Rest in peace Chocolate. I love you so much.
Angie Pie Plate
Dad,
Was always fearing this day will eventually come and now here it is. In two days, we will be officially honoring your memories here on earth. I was so overcome with emotions since learning of your unexpected passing. I did not see this coming at all. I was just glad that I was able to be with you (and family) the day prior to your passing. There are so many things to write about you on here, but I will keep this as short as I can.
First off, I want to thank you for being not only my Dad, but also my role model, protector, leader, coach, mentor and someone who eventually became my best friend. We have shared so many moments to which will always be remembered through your countless videos that you had taken throughout the decades. Although some were grainy and not as modern day as in quality, your comments and the way you commanded a room brought in all the quality and color that no modern day iphone pixel video recorder could ever match.
One of the best things I have ever heard someone say about me was from you. You had told me several times that I was exactly like you and that my name should have been Chuck. You had chosen my name because you said that is the name you would want to have but it was a strong name due to the archangel Michael, fighting evil and spearheading Satan being removed from heaven.
Dad, I hope that I have made you proud while on earth with me as mortal men. I hope that I continue to make you proud and ask you to be my immortal/eternal role model, protector, leader, coach and mentor. You will always be my best friend and know that not only do I have very big shoes to fill, but a bigger heart to fill as well.
In conclusion, as we have done so many times after our visits and phone conversations, I say bye to you and that we will talk and see each other soon. This is not a goodbye but will see you soon. The next time I do, it will be perfect. Will have Papa, Nana, Dan-Dan and countless others loved ones there with us. What a perfect, complete and eternal moment that will be!
I love you, Dad. Your job here is done and done perfectly. Rest well. With your guidance, I will take it from here.
For the last four years, I had the privilege of helping care for Chuck and spending time with him. In those years, he shared countless memories, stories, and pieces of his life with me. At 82 years old, Chuck had lived a life full of experiences, and I was grateful for every story he told and every conversation we shared.
What I will remember most is not just the stories themselves, but the time spent together. It was an honor to get to know the man behind those memories and to witness the strength, wisdom, and humor he carried throughout his life. I will miss our conversations, but I will always carry his stories with me.
Thank you, Chuck, for letting me be a small part of your journey.
