We Remember

ANSELMO, Charlie Tony

July 2, 1936 — January 11, 2026

Charlie Tony Anselmo passed away in Kelowna on January 11, 2026, at the age of 89. He was born in Natal, BC, on July 2, 1936, to Mike and Lillian Anselmo. He was predeceased by his parents, also his first wife, Divina (née Kachaluba) Anselmo, his sister and brother-in-law Theresa and William “Bill” Welch Sr and recently by his dear nephew Bill Welch Jr.

Charlie was raised in the coal mining towns of Michel and Natal, and grew up surrounded by a large and very close Italian family with many Aunts, Uncles, and cousins that he always treasured dearly. He moved down the road to Sparwood in 1969, where he continued to be very involved in the community… everybody knew “Chachie”! He worked many years for Kaiser Coal, and he was a member of the Volunteer Fire Department, drove many ambulance trips transferring patients to larger hospitals, and loved his job as a school bus driver. He coached hockey for decades, was an avid golfer and dedicated member of his church. During these years, he kept such close ties to his Mom and his Aunts who now lived in the Minihaha area of Spokane (known by so many who lived there as “Little Italy”), visiting often – as they were so very special to him – and he was always there to help with whatever was needed.

It was in Spokane that he met the love of his life, Bonnie Mediaty. They spent many happy years together in Spokane, Kelowna, and Arizona, and they were known to often jump in the car to take road trips to visit many of the friends and families who they kept in touch with. Charlie loved being part of Bonnie’s very special family, including her daughter Lori and son-in-law Mike; grandchildren Adria (Geoff) and Anali (Matt); and he was always delighted to visit with and tell stories about their great-grandchildren, Rocco, Serafina, Vera, Enzo, and Domenico, who made him so happy whenever they would call or visit. He doted on those children!

We will miss this exceptional man who was always ready for a good story and a good laugh.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Emily Brydon Youth Foundation, who provide financial support to Elk Valley youth to pursue their dreams involving sports, education, and the arts.

There will be Celebration of Life planned in Spokane when the weather is warmer and when friends and family can gather to tell their stories and share memories.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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Emily Brydon Youth Foundation Link: wp.emilybrydonyouthfoundation.com

 


 


Condolences

  • Lindy Polacik says:

    Condolences to Bonny and family. Charlie was a great guy and will surely be missed.

  • Tom and Wendy Rybachuk says:

    Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Bonnie and all the family. He was known as ‘Hi Gang’ to us as he’d walk past our place, see the girls playing outside and every time say ‘hi gang’ to them. They’d watch for him so they could say ‘hi gang’ back to him. Brings a smile to my face. RIP Charlie! 💔

  • Kevin Petovello says:

    My golf partner for father/son nights in Sparwood when my older brother played with our Dad. There was always a seat next to Charlie at the grownups table in the Clubhouse, making us youngsters (many years ago) feel welcome. A great man! Always smiling and happy! Loved by all the Petovello’s ❤️ Our sincere condolences to Bonnie and the family!

  • Don Berdusco says:

    RIP Charlie. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family.♥️

  • Pat and Ray Reghenas says:

    Our sincere sympathy to Bonnie and Charlie’s family. Charlie was a good friend and will be missed.

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