Charles Francis Bounds
July 11, 1942 – November 23, 2025

Born in Ashland, Oregon, to Charles and Melba Bounds, Charles grew up in his father’s auto shop, where he discovered his gift for mechanics. That gift became a lifelong career in the automotive industry, as he eventually purchased Trinity Auto Repair in Willow Creek. 

Charles served his country in Vietnam. He served his community with his hands. But the greatest chapter of his life was his love story with Carol. They married, built a family, and though life took them in different directions, God brought them back together. They remarried, and their later years overflowed with laughter, devotiacon, and the joy of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandchild. 

Charles was more than a mechanic — he was an artist who loved to draw, a jokester who loved to tease, and a grandfather who filled his family’s lives with laughter.  

He is survived by his wife, Carol; daughters Cynthia McAuley, Chellyn Bowser, and Tracey Hamby; and his sister Judy Buchanan. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Bounds, and a nephew. He leaves behind a large and loving family, including grandchildren Justin, Tim, Danielle, Victoria, Carlyn, Joel, Valarie, Neil, Ross, Jessicah, Kaden, Brenna, Jacob, Charlee, Emily, and Arthur, as well as many great-grandchildren, a great-great grandchild, nieces and extended family members.

His story is one of service, artistry, humor and above all, love. He taught us that true love can endure distance and time, that laughter is a gift worth sharing, and that family is the greatest treasure of all.

Charles will be laid to rest December 15, 2025, at Eagle Point National Cemetery, joining his parents.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Charles Bounds’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.