Charles “Charlie” Rinehart, 72, went home to be with the Lord on August 7, 2026 after a courageous and heartbreaking battle with ALS. Over the last several months, Charlie fought harder than anyone could have imagined, facing each day with remarkable strength and determination despite the cruel progression of the disease. Even as ALS took away so much, it never took away Charlie’s sense of humor. He continued to joke, tease those he loved, and give everyone a hard time whenever he could—a reminder of the strong, spirited man he would always be. Charlie lived a life defined by hard work, selfless service, unwavering devotion and love to his family and friends. 

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Theresa Rinehart; his sister, Edwina Luke; his nephew, Adam Rinehart; his beloved first wife and soulmate of 38 years, Patricia Ruddell Rinehart; and his second wife, Robin Hickey Rinehart.

Charlie is survived by his daughters, Holly Ellis (Wayne) and Jennifer Hill (Duane); his stepdaughters, Erica (Garrett) and Melissa (Chuck); He was a proud papaw to his grandchildren: Lindsey (Blake), Austin (Danielle), Montana (Jacob), Brooke, Joseph, Taylor and Lainey. 

One of Charlie’s greatest blessings was his great-grandchildren, affectionately known as “Charlie’s 6 Pack” and “Charlie’s Angels”—Josie, Maevery, Preston, Walker, Lillian, and Kase. Nothing made him happier than spending time with his babies. 

Charlie is also survived by his brothers, John (Charlotte) and Jimmy (Sharon); his sisters, Kathy (Steve) Rose (Dave) and sister in law Cheryl McGough (Mark); along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will miss his steady presence and kind heart. 

Charlie dedicated 28 years of service to Brevard County Road and Bridge as a mechanic, where he earned the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic, mechanical talent, and willingness to help anyone in need. His commitment to serving others extended far beyond his career. He proudly volunteered with the Mims Volunteer Fire Department and devoted countless hours over many years coaching, mentoring, and umpiring youth sports at Mims Little League, Indian River City Little League, and NBYSA. Through his volunteer work, Charlie impacted the lives of generations of young athletes, teaching not only the game but also sportsmanship, respect, and perseverance. 

Charlie found peace in the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, taking drives down backroads, attending auctions, attending the Flywheeler shows, and spending time with friends and family. Above all else, he treasured attending his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s ballgames. Whether sitting in the bleachers or standing along the fence, he was always their biggest fan. 

Charlie will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart, quick wit, and unwavering love for his family. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand. If you knew Charlie, you also knew he loved to give you a hard time. Whether it was a playful joke, a little teasing, or a clever one-liner, he had a way of making people laugh and keeping everyone on their toes. His sense of humor was just as much a part of him as his kindness and those who loved him wouldn’t have wanted him any other way. 

Although our hearts are broken by his loss, we find comfort in knowing that his love, his example, and the memories he created will live on in all who knew him. We also find peace in believing he has been reunited with those who went before him, especially Patti.

A viewing will be held from 5–7 p.m. Wednesday at Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home in Titusville. A celebration of Charlie’s life will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday at Mims Methodist Church, followed by burial at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.