Charles J. Wieners

Charles J. Wieners, affectionately known as Charlie, age 80, of Drexel Hill, PA, passed away on October 7, 2024. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Charles and Marie Antoinette “Toni” Wieners (nee Caruso). 

Charlie dedicated his life to nurturing the minds of young souls as a beloved Catholic school teacher for 45 years. He began his teaching career at Cardinal Dougherty before moving on to share his talents at Archbishop Prendergast and Cardinal O’Hara. A man who put others needs before his own, he also moderated CSC for his entire teaching career, enriching the lives of countless families with enduring acts of kindness. For those who were less fortunate, he made Thanksgiving and Christmas not mere holidays, but seasons of joy and abundance. 

Charlie was not only a man of profound commitment to Catholic education; he wore the title of Coach with pride. Although his ultimate passion was in coaching softball, Charlie never turned down the request of students who needed a coach in order for their sport to exist, regardless of his knowledge of the game. Whether it was bowling, tennis or any other sport, he would take on the challenge willingly by purchasing a book and “staying one chapter ahead” of the athletes in order to guide and support them. The ultimate Philadelphia Phillies fan, he made it a ritual to attend spring training each year, fortified by his season tickets and using his knowledge of the game to coach from the sidelines or the living room (if only they would listen to him, they would never lose!) 

Charlie’s admiration for sports was matched only by his cherished roles as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His love for his wife, Mary, was evident in every moment they shared, while his children and grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy and pride. A dedicated spectator, he could often be found at Citizens Bank Park, St. Joseph's University Fieldhouse, or cheering on his grandchildren as they showcased their talents in sports and the performing arts. His grandchildren were the center of his universe and he was their number one fan whether it was on the sidelines of a baseball, basketball, field hockey or softball game or in the front row of a musical theater performance. 

Moreover, the influential figures in Charlie's life—Richie Ashburn, Bobby Kennedy, and his beloved Grandpop Wieners (who instilled in him his love of baseball) —painted the portrait of a man whose values were deeply rooted in mentorship and the spirit of giving. Charlie had many accomplishments in his life. The one of which he was most proud was his time as the Hawk at St. Joseph’s University. Charlie had the distinction of being named the fourth Hawk ever in SJU history (1965-1966) and proudly carried that title his entire life. 

The other title that Charlie loved most was “Mary’s husband”. A true team, their marriage was a testament to teamwork and friendship – they were best friends whose personalities perfectly complimented each other. Charlie and Mary loved to explore and created many memories together as they traveled across the United States and around the world. Hosting school trips for Prendie girls, they crossed the mountains of Switzerland and glided through the canals of Venice. Charlie and Mary enjoyed wandering through wineries all across the country and bringing home the fruits of their travels to share with family and friends. And, of course, Charlie always managed to find a ballgame no matter where they landed! 

Charlie was the beloved husband of Mary Wieners (nee Light); loving father of John Wieners, Kathy Martin (Joe), and Tracey Rush (Jack); adoring Pop-Pop of Kaitlyn, Allison, Kellie, Jason, and Tyler; caring brother of Maryrita Wieners (Dan Glaser). Charlie is also survived by his brothers and sisters in law who he loved as his siblings and many nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to Charlie’s Viewing 4:00-6:00 PM on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082 and to his Funeral Mass 10:30 AM on Monday, October 14, 2024 at St. Andrew the Apostle Church, 3500 School Ln., Drexel Hill, PA 19026. Interment SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA. 

If you are so inclined, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the John P. Gallagher '31 Hawk Scholarship at Saint Joseph's University at giving.sju.edu/Wieners66 or can be mailed to University Advancement, Saint Joseph's University 5600 City Ave Philadelphia, PA 19131.