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, wp.emilybrydonyouthfoundation.com, 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.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com.

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