Charles Thomas Azzara (Charlie) was 77 years old when he passed away on Friday, November 15th, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. Charlie was one of a kind. He lived life to the fullest and made sure to fill every day with love and laughter.

Charlie was born on October 4, 1947, in Floral Park, NY. While attending Yankton College, he met and married Chris Hargens (Andresen), and they were blessed with three kids: Patrick Azzara, Elizabeth Azzara, and Angie Azzara (Williams). He later met and married Michelle Harding, and the two of them spent many great years traveling, fishing, and laughing together. He became like a father to Michelle's children: Rachel Pedro Francisco and Jason Harding. Charlie will also be held close in the hearts of his grandchildren: Jack Ryan Williams, August Patrick Williams, Aria Marie Azzara, Elena Michelle Pedro Francisco, Ezra Luin Pedro Francisco, and Giovanna Charlie Pedro Francisco.

As a teacher and tax consultant in his community, Charlie had an impact on many people. In the 1970s, he taught math and biology at Washington High School, where he was popular with his students and known for his practical jokes. His love of teaching continued throughout his life. He taught martial arts for many years and had a tremendous impact on the local martial arts community. In addition, Charlie was well known for the tax company he founded and operated for decades, a business which will be carried forward by his son, Pat, and nephew, Chuck.

Charlie will forever be remembered as a fun-loving man with a big heart. He loved his wife, children, and extended family fiercely. Family was so important to him, and connecting with others (even from a distance) was always his main priority. Charlie's ability to bring people together would prove to be his superpower. His friends and family loved congregating at his house, where his spaghetti dinners and pheasant feeds were always filled with conversation, laughter, and of course, scotch sours. Even in his final weeks, Charlie's house was packed with people who wanted to be near him one last time. He had a magnetic personality and changed the lives of everyone he knew. He leaves a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends, who were always entertained by his stories and hilarious sense of humor. Charlie truly brought the life to the party.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 11th, at 4:00 PM, at the Sioux Falls Mosaic Arts and Event Center, 500 N. Main Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104. This event will be a celebration of Charlie's life, and we look forward to gathering with you to remember and honor this incredible man.