Charles Shackson, Class of 1965

Charles “Gus” Shackson ’65 died August 6, 2022. He was born in Columbus, Ohio on February 9, 1942, to the late Lee and Katherine Shackson.
Gus graduated from Westerville High School in 1960, and then went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Otterbein University. During his time at Otterbein, he was very active in his community, participating in ROTC, student government, men’s glee club, and Pi Kappa Phi (Country Club) fraternity. He continued his education at the University of Florida where he received his master’s of Arts in Economics.
Gus was in the Airforce, where he earned many medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross with six oak leaf clusters, Meritorious Service Medal with three oak clusters, Air Medal with 28 oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.
Gus was proud to be a member of the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association. (“River Rats” as he would say). Also, he was a supporter of several philanthropic organizations. Gus also enjoyed playing golf, listening to music, and traveling.
Gus is survived by his wife Carmel, son Michael, daughter Katherine, and four grandchildren Emma, Ellen, David and Joseph. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Carol Simmons Shackson ’63. He was preceded in death by his brother James Shackson ’61.