Charlotte "Charlee" Gutheil

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charlotte “Charlee” Gutheil on Sunday, June 28th, 2026. Charlee was born in Denver, Colorado, and peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones in the very same home where her life began.

Her strikingly beautiful blue eyes and the kindness of her gaze were the first things you noticed about Charlee. She had an alarmingly unique sense of humor that could keep you laughing all day. A patient and gentle teacher, she was lovingly known as “Coach Charlee” by students and colleagues alike. She enjoyed her role as an Instructor of Physical Education and Health.

Her teaching career started in Fairplay, Colorado, and then she proudly served her country as an educator for the Department of Defense, a role that took her overseas for almost four decades. She embraced every opportunity to experience new cultures while living in Turkey, the Azores, and Italy. Her years abroad filled her life with unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships.

Charlee was an independent woman who found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She had a passion for gardening, taking pride in every flower and plant she nurtured. She loved the freedom of riding her motorcycle, the clarity she found while jogging, and the peace that came to her while sitting in her front yard, feeding treats to all of the dogs that walked by.

Above all else, she had an extraordinary love for animals. Throughout her lifetime, she opened her heart and home to hundreds of animals, providing them with love, care, and compassion. Whether rescuing a stray, nursing an injured animal back to health, or simply giving them a safe place to call home, her kindness knew no bounds. Her legacy will live on in the countless lives—both human and animal—that she touched.

She will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, unwavering compassion, fierce independence, feisty sense of humor, and generous heart. Though she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, the memories she created and the love she shared will remain forever.

Charlee was preceded in death by her mother, Elizabeth F. Gutheil; her father, Walter Reinhold Gutheil; her sister, Elizabeth Ann Stice; and the love of her life, Schnookums. She is survived by her chosen family and lifelong friends.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.  

In lieu of flowers, the representatives request that donations be made to a local animal rescue or shelter in her memory, honoring the lifelong compassion she showed to animals.