Charles E. Woods

United States Air Force Senior Airman Charles E. Woods sadly passed away on July 4, 2018, due to untreated hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition deemed a service related illness.

Woods grew up in Bridport, Vermont, with his loving parents, Douglas and Christie alongside his sister Lily and brother Joe. After his father retired from the U.S. Air Force, the family settled in the countryside. Throughout high school, Woods worked on a neighbor’s farm and found joy in playing in the school band. Woods felt a profound calling to serve and protect, driven by a powerful legacy of military service that coursed through every generation of men in his family since the founding of this nation For Woods, it wasn’t just a choice, it was a continuation of purpose and honor.

On December 28, 2010 Woods joined the United States Air Force. He was an incredible leader, respected, kind, and deeply compassionate. He had a gift for teaching and took pride in training the new technicians, guiding them with patience and encouragement. With integrity, Woods led by example and never spoke poorly of others. During deployments, Woods was known for his compassion, often caring for stray dogs and puppies he encountered. He received many special awards and recognitions. He completed multiple tours overseas, including service in Operation Iraqi Freedom, demonstrating unwavering dedication on and off the battlefield. While stationed at Tinker AFB, he earned special recognition for his heroic efforts supporting local families in the aftermath of the devastating 2013 Moore Tornado.

Woods met his wife, Mikaella at a bar called Charlie’s, which always made them laugh since his name was Charlie too. She worked there as a bartender, and for a long time, they were just friends, sharing laughs and late-night conversations across the bar. Over time their friendship turned into a loving relationship. Mikaella was drawn to his kindness and gentle demeanor. Her free spirit and his calm presence blended together perfectly. One of her most cherished memories happened the weekend before he passed. Woods had just returned from a temporary duty in Washington, D.C., and money was tight. They had exactly $19 left on a credit card, but his Mustang had a full tank of gas, and Firebird Raceway was calling his name. Racing brought him pure joy. Mikaella looked at him and said, “Go race. Life’s too short not to do what we love.” So they did. The sun was shining, the track buzzed with energy, and Woods ran some of the best numbers of his life. He was in his element; happy, free, and doing what he loved most. Just three days later, Woods passed away.

Mikaella and her children, Koda, Bently and Jon, honor Woods’ legacy fully, fearlessly, and with purpose. They confront their fears, embrace the unknown with courage, and chase the joy that life still holds. Every day reminds them that life is precious, a lesson Woods understood well. They embrace life fully, just as Woods would have wanted.

United States Air Force Senior Airman Charles E. Woods is survived by his beautiful wife, Mikaella and their beautiful children Koda, Bently and Jon. He was predeceased by his parents, Douglas and Christie.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage of the Woods family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.