Douglas G. Charles, 54, of Union, passed away on November 12, 2025. Born May 21, 1971, in St. Louis, Doug was the son of William and Judith (Martin) Charles and a graduate of Parkway Central High School.
Doug lived simply but fully. Soccer was central to his life, he played, he coached, and he showed up for the kids.
Parents and players remember a man who brought energy, patience, and genuine care to the pitch.
“He was such a great guy. He’ll be missed,” wrote Michael Etter, whose son played for Doug. John Simmons, who refereed many of Doug’s games, called the news “a sad shock” and offered prayers for the family.
Away from the field, Doug found joy in quieter pursuits: making wine, tending his garden, and spending time outdoors.
Those hobbies reflected a steady, hands-on personality the kind of man who preferred meaningful moments over attention.
Community Mourning the loss of beloved coach
Several parents noted the small details that showed Doug’s character: one wrote that the boys “really enjoyed him, and his sweet pup he would bring with him,” a reminder of the small ways he connected with families.
Doug is survived by his parents, Bill and Judy Charles of Washington; his sons, Alexander and Liam Charles of Washington.
The outpouring of condolences has been immediate and steady. Jeff Hasting called Doug “Our dear friend, coach, teammate, fan and an important part of our extended family,” adding, “may you rest in eternal peace with the Lord.”
Ximena Kriete urged friends to “continue to keep his memory alive,” and Mark Lensing thanked Doug for coaching his son for many seasons.
Tom Schroeder, who knew Doug from around Washington, said he was “shocked by this news” and remembered their conversations.
Messages of “prayers,” “so sorry for your loss,” and “continued prayers for Alex & Liam and family” appear repeatedly from neighbors, fellow coaches, and parents, underscoring how many lives Doug touched.
A visitation will be held Monday, November 24, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Nieburg-Vitt Miller Funeral Home, with a funeral service beginning at 12 p.m. Interment will follow at St. Francis Borgia Cemetery.
The family asks for privacy and prayers at this time. A memorial fund has been set up for Alexander and Liam at the Bank of Franklin County.
Memorial donations may also be made to the Douglas Charles family, payable to Alexander and Liam Charles.
Doug’s life was not defined by headlines but by presence, by coaching a team, sharing a bottle he’d made, digging in a garden, and being the man his sons called Dad.
Those simple, steady things are the reason so many have paused to grieve and to give thanks for having known him.
