Charles Rinker Obituary

Charles "Charlie" Rinker

It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of Charles "Charlie" Rinker, who left this world peacefully Wednesday, November 5, 2025, surrounded by love, his wife, Annie and daughters, Jody and Jessica, by his side. Charlie was Annie's best friend, her constant companion, and the light of her life. His heart was one that touched everyone who knew him: kind, funny, hardworking, and endlessly giving. Our family is heartbroken, but we are leaning on one another and holding tight to the memories of a beautiful life shared.

Charlie grew up in Tiffin, graduating from Columbian High School in 1969. He later lived in Columbus before settling in Findlay for the past decade, long enough to make an impact everywhere he landed and to find the best local spots for good food and OSU football parties.

If loyalty could be measured in years, Charlie set a record: he built an entire 44-year career with AEP (formerly Ohio Power). From his early days as a substation mechanic to his later role as a TCR overseeing the construction of new transmission stations, he approached every job with dedication and pride. He would have happily kept working if his health hadn't insisted he slow down; retirement wasn't in his vocabulary.

Charlie loved life on the move. Before his initial cancer diagnosis, you'd find him on the golf course, where his swing may not have always been perfect, but the laughs and friendships certainly were. He cheered passionately (and sometimes loudly) for Ohio State football and Cleveland Browns, proof that optimism truly runs deep. Most of all, he loved being surrounded by family and friends, cracking jokes, and making sure everyone felt welcome.

A man of faith, Charlie lived his values quietly and was sincerely loyal, generous, and devoted to the people he loved. He was the kind of guy who showed up early, stayed late, and did the things that needed to be done without ever asking for applause.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Marie "Annie" Capetillo Rinker, whom he married March 3, 2007; his cherished children, Jody Rohr (Kevin) and Jessica Fiutem (Justin); and his loving stepsons, Paul Diaz and Matt Diaz. He was a proud grandfather to Kayla (and great-granddaughter, Mila), Megan Pregon (Brad), Levi, KJ, John, Ava Grace, Angelo, Graham, and Julian, each of whom brought him tremendous joy.

He is reunited in heaven with his son, Chad Rinker, who passed away in early childhood; his parents, William and Phyllis Rinker; and his sister, Rebecca "Becky" Sours. Charlie and his dog, Chukee, were constant companions, bound by a simple, steady love that needed no words. We know there was a big welcome home celebration waiting for Charlie.

Charlie leaves behind decades of laughs, stories, and love, and we'll be telling "Charlie jokes" for years to come. Though our hearts are heavy, we know he is at peace, and we are endlessly grateful for the time we were blessed to share with him.

Visitation is from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Hoening & Son Funeral Home, 133 W. Tiffin Street, Fostoria, OH 44830. A vigil service will begin at 4:30 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 17, 2025, at St. Wendelin Catholic Church, 323 N. Wood Street, Fostoria, OH 44830, with the Rev. Joseph Poggemeyer presiding. Following Mass, burial will take place at St. Wendelin Catholic Cemetery, 765 Van Buren Street, Fostoria, OH 44830. A luncheon will be afterward at St. Wendelin Catholic Church in the parish hall to continue sharing memories and fellowship.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Cancer Patient Services, 1800 North Blanchard Street, Findlay, OH 45840.

Online expressions of sympathy and shared memories may be made by visiting www.hoeningfuneralhome.com

Well done, good and faithful servant. May he rest in God's eternal peace and joy.