Charlie's Legacy Lives On

On October 3, 2023, Tacoma lost a pillar of its community, Seok Chul "Charlie" Park, in a senseless act of violence. Charlie was not just a store owner; he was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished friend, and an integral part of the neighborhood.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Rana (Chung Ran) his daughter, Sue (Su Min), and two sons, Min Seok and Do Geon. His absence has left a void in our hearts that can never be filled.

Charlie's love for his family was boundless. He often spoke of the joy he found in spoiling his wife, Chung Ran, with little surprises, like her favorite yellow roses. Their love was so profound that it often made others around them green with envy, yet it was an inspiration to all who witnessed it.

And then there was Su Min, his beloved daughter, the apple of his eye. Her laughter and smile were the light of his life, and he spared no effort to ensure she knew how cherished she was. They shared countless adventures together, exploring the world's beauty hand in hand, creating memories that will forever live in her heart.

As Charlie got older, Min Seok stepped in to support his father by helping around the store, ensuring that Charlie could find moments to rest and recharge. Min Seok's selfless dedication to easing his father's workload showcased his deep love and appreciation. This father-son partnership not only strengthened their bond but also upheld the sense of community that Charlie had nurtured throughout his years of service.

Charlie's son, Do Geon, was a testament to the depth of their family bonds. Do Geon, who was serving in the army, had been counting down the days until his discharge (only 2 months remaining), not for his own freedom, but for the opportunity to fulfill a promise he had made to his father. He had saved up his entire army allowance, sacrificing his own comforts, with the sole intention of taking his dad on a trip of a lifetime once he was back home. That's just how much Do Geon loved his father - willing to give everything for him.

The Little Store was more than just a convenience store; it was a hub of warmth and connection in our community. Charlie knew each neighbor by name, what they liked to buy, and always had a kind word or a listening ear. He would often be seen walking around the neighborhood with his Yorkie, Coco, keeping an eye on neighbors and a friendly greeting. He took the time to know everyone, and in return, everyone knew him as a man of integrity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to the people he served. He loved to tell his family about what was going on in the neighborhood.

This GoFundMe campaign has been created to honor Charlie's memory and support his grieving family during this challenging time. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference in helping us cover the funeral expenses and provide financial support for the Park family.

Your generosity will not only help ease the immediate financial burden but also serve as a testament to the lasting impact Charlie had on our lives. Together, we can ensure that his legacy lives on and that his family receives the care and support they need to navigate this devastating loss.

How You Can Help:

Charlie Park was a shining example of what it means to be a neighbor, a friend, and a loving family member. Let's come together as a community to honor his memory and provide a helping hand to the family he cherished. Your support means the world to us.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

With heartfelt gratitude,

The Park Family

News articles:

Fox News

KOMO News

K5 Article