Penwell Turner Funeral Home - Shelby, Ohio

Charles Richard “Chuck” Ridenour, II

Charles Richard “Chuck” Ridenour, II, age 61, of Shelby, died Friday evening, December 23, 2022 at The James at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus. His death follows a lengthy battle with various health issues.

Chuck was born November 8, 1961 in Shelby and graduated from Shelby High School in 1980. While in high school, Chuck would listen to football and basketball games on the radio, type articles on his grandmother’s typewriter, and drop them in the mail slot at the Shelby Daily Globe office which they began printing with Chuck as a correspondent. This sparked what turned into a 40+ year devotion to his career with the Globe where he was the Sports Editor and always kept Shelby readers up to date on all sporting events- especially Shelby Whippet Athletics.

To say that Chuck was a major supporter of Shelby youth would be an understatement. Through his work with the Globe and his photography business, Ridenour Photography, Chuck learned all Shelby youth by their first names and stored it deep in his memory. From YMCA youth sports through Shelby City Schools sports careers, Chuck photographed teams and individuals, including the All-Ohio Athletes at Shelby High School, for many years. His kind demeanor made students feel comfortable in all scenarios but especially if students and their families did not have the means to afford pictures. It was through his generous nature that all student athletes have their photos taken and, if finances were an issue, he would cover the cost.

Professionally, Chuck was the recipient of numerous awards for his writing throughout the years including several from United Press International and the OHSAA Media Service Award through their Sportsmanship, Ethics, and Integrity Program. However, the award he was most proud of was when he was bestowed the Charles C.W. Williams Sixth Man Award. While he was waiting to take the photograph of the winner, his name was called and, much to his surprise, he became the recipient.

As hobbies, Chuck was an avid bowler and had bowled a 300 game at the Shelby Rhythm Bowl. He also was incredibly active for over 25 years with the North Central Ohio Soapbox Derby where he had been the director for many years. He also had a love for trains, especially steam engines, something sparked from his grandfather working on the B&O Railroad and eventually becoming a passion he enjoyed sharing with his grandchildren. If you knew Chuck, you knew him with a camera around his neck and his signature BiC 4-color ballpoint pen and a steno pad in hand ready to capture the excitement of the game in front of him- something that has been seen from many generations of Shelby and surrounding communities.

On June 22, 1985, Chuck married Pamela Sue Kemplin. Pam survives along with their children: Charles Richard Ridenour, III and Brooke (Alex) Alt; grandchildren: Addison and Mason; his mother: Carol Anne (Kaylor) Ridenour; siblings: Carl (Rhonda) Ridenour, Craig (Tanya) Ridenour, and Cathy (David) Green; in-laws: Marsha (Greg) Chase, Terri Kemplin Howard, and Ed (Teresa) Kemplin; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Chuck was preceded in death by his father: Charles Richard Ridenour, Sr. and father and mother-in-law: Henry Edward “Ed” and Claris (Adkins) Kemplin, Sr.

Family and friends are welcome on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 from 1-3 and 5-7 pm at the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at 10:30 am. Rev. Lester Champer will officiate the services with burial following in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to The Shelby Foundation, 142 North Gamble Street, Shelby, Ohio 44875, where a scholarship honoring Chuck will be housed and administered.

Condolences may be left on Chuck’s obituary on the funeral home’s website, www.PenwellTurner.com, or their Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral.

 

To view Chuck’s memorial video, click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/7XYQZTZHMPH47492

 

Memories & Condolence

  1. Linda Zuercher says:

    I am so sorry for your loss. He will certainly be missed by this community.

  2. Greg Ogborn says:

    You will be missed, my old friend

  3. Monica Lee & Kaiden Lee says:

    Chuck photographed Kaiden in every sport he has played starting at the age of 3. 3-4 times a year we saw Chuck. Kaiden is 10 now. I also have numerous sports articles and photos that made it in the Globe he took of Kaiden. A great man. Always had a smile on his face. Never new a stranger. He will greatly missed. Lots of Prayers to his family!

  4. Heather (baker) Fighter says:

    A wonderful man sure to be missed by many! My thoughts with all he touched. May you find comfort and peace!

  5. Tom Sabourin says:

    Pam, Charlie, and Brooke,
    I’m so very sorry for your loss. Chuck was a good friend and an even better person. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you with peace and comfort in these tough times. If there is anything you need don’t hesitate to ask.

    Prayers
    Tom Sabourin

  6. Kelly Holder says:

    Prayers to the family. Chuck was a wonderful man and will be missed by many.

  7. Roger Ridenour (Uncle) says:

    The world has lost a fabulous man. You could not ask for a better husband,father, nephew, relative or acqaintance. He loved his family, his life, Shelby Sports, and all of Shelby. He will be greatly missed by many. Safe travels my nephew. We love you.

  8. Ed Russell says:

    I am very sorry for your loss. Chuck was a Shelby icon. Rest in peace Chuck.

  9. Pat Keen says:

    I am sorry for your loss and to the Shelby community. He was a loyal fan of the Whippets and will certainly be missed by them and players. Cherish your fond memories!

  10. paul mcclintock says:

    My condolences to the family. For many years I coached track at Plymouth High School. On innumerable nights I would call Chuck when I got home from a meet and report the stats of our meet so he could put them in the Globe. He was always friendly and a pleasure to talk to. After reading his obituary, I am certain he will be missed by many.

  11. Amy Bogner says:

    I am so very sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing.Chuck was a one of a kind. He always had a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed by the Shelby Community! Many prayers sent

  12. Kevin Baird says:

    Chuck became a friend while covering me in Sports in High School. Although I wasn’t one of the best he made me feel special. He was one of a kind!!

  13. Mark Hoover says:

    So sorry to see this news, wonderful human being, loved his work, loved his family, he’ll be missed by the entire community, what a legacy he left for 100’s and 100’s of kids playing sports to be able to share, read, and keep in scrapbooks for literally generations, the great articles he has published.

  14. Richard Huff says:

    Condolences from the Shelby Babe Ruth families. Our coaches and their families hold Chuck in high esteem, and deeply regret your family’s loss. Chuck was respected and a great supporter of our programs. He will be missed. Sincerely, Rich Huff, Mark Young, Randy Hoskins and Jake Miller.

  15. Karen Hiney says:

    I am so sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Pam and family. My brother Mike is so sad to hear this news, as he just talked to him last month. Certainly gone too soon.❤️

  16. Ed Plocek says:

    What a blessing to have known Chuck through the school age years. Always smiling always kind. A solid role model for kids and adults alike.

  17. Jennie (Kolb) Brown says:

    So sorry to read of Chuck’s passing. He was a wonderfully gifted writer and photographer. I remember him as a kind and gentle soul, even back in high school when we had an Explorer troop at The Daily Globe and Linda Stotts helped us learn how to take and develop film. ❤️ Thinking of you all as you mourn his loss. May God bless you with nothing but happy memories.

  18. Steve Mohr says:

    It was a real shock to hear of Chuck’s passing. During the 31 years that I coached I never encountered anyone who could match Chuck’s professionalism, empathy for the teams and coaches he covered and the humility that he displayed while working at the highest level in his profession. He left a wonderful legacy that will last forever. My condolences to his wonderful family and the Shelby community.

  19. Troy Mohler says:

    Hugs and prayers to the entire family. Chuck made all athletes in Shelby feel extra special. He also helped past Whippets stay up to date on Shelby teams regardless of where they lived. Thanks for all you did for Shelby Chuck! RIP

  20. EV Kuzma says:

    We are so sorry for your loss. Chuck was a very special husband, father, and grandfather and he was so loved. He will be so missed.

    With love and sympathy,
    Chris, EV, Cooper, and Brady Kuzma

  21. Pam Lynch says:

    Pam and family,
    I am so sorry for the loss of Chuckie. We may not have been real close but we always spoke. I have known him since our play dates in the play pen while Chuck and Carol & my mom and dad played cards. Chuckie will be missed by so many. He IS the face of the Daily Globe:) You and your family will be in my prayers. It’s so hard losing the love of your life.

  22. Amy Dawson says:

    Sorry for you’re loss. He knew my boys from sports from over the years!

  23. Jeremy says:

    I Grew up reading Mr. Ridenour’s articles and following his writings from Coach Stacy to Coach Shaffer and Coach Mohr to Coach Lewis.
    I was naive to think every community had a sports writer as dedicated as he was. I found out years later when my daughter played sports in Beavercreek,Texas and New Mexico when it started really sinking in what we had in Shelby with Mr. Ridenour. There would be nothing reported or barely a snippet. In high school he covered the teams I played on with a passion and unparalleled professionalism it took me well into adulthood to fully appreciate. He was one of the many special people that will always make Shelby the ideal of what a strong community looks like, and it hurts to know he’s passed on.

    Gone much too soon and thank you sir for taking the time to write an article on a senior basketball benchwarmer back in 1999. You made me feel like I belonged to something.

  24. Faith Abbott says:

    Pam, Charlie, Brooke, Alex and the babies…Ian and I will always remember all the help and guidance you gave Carson and all the other kids at the soap Box derby’s!! Chuck had such a talent with writing and photography and made such an impact on so many people!! May your memories give you peace to carry you thru until you meet again. Rest in peace Chuck!!

  25. Chris DeVito says:

    Pam, Charlie and Brooke; I am so sad for your loss. Cherish all those special memories. I will keep you in my prayers.

  26. Beth and Randy Terman says:

    So sorry for your loss. Chuck will be missed by the Shelby Community. Your family is in our prayers

  27. Susan Metzger says:

    Pam and family, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Your family has my deepest condolences.

  28. Darrell and Marilyn Shepherd says:

    Our deepest condolences at this time to the entire family. Prayers for the entire family in the days ahead. May he rest in peace

  29. Beth Fenner says:

    Pam, Brooke, Charlie and family, so sorry for your loss. Chuck was one of the nicest people I have ever met. He will be missed. Sending prayers for comfort.

  30. Timothy Coll says:

    Sorry for your loss! Chuck rode with me when I worked for Shelby PD in the 1980’s. He wrote an article for the paper about drinking and driving. I always liked Chuck and found him to be genuine. I moved from Shelby many years ago but I am not surprised at the impact he had on the community. His presence will be missed.

  31. Nothacker Family says:

    We are all sad to hear about Chuck and send our sincerest condolences. Rest in peace and love.

  32. Lorna Albert says:

    Ridenour family, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Cherish your memories!! Prayers to all.

  33. Karen Brown says:

    I had the pleasure of working with Chuck while I was in Shelby- he was one of the good guys- that’s for sure. He will be truly missed by his community. RIP friend.

  34. Guy Vogrin says:

    I first saw Chuck 42 years ago this week as I was starting my first newspaper job at the Globe. I was fresh out of BGSU and uncertain about my future and I see this confident 16 year old strutting around the newsroom who acted like he ran the place. People like to tell me that chuck took over my job at the globe… well I was only keeping the seat warm for him. He truly is Mr. Shelby who loved the town and its people. He made a good life and has his priorities straight.. he was a family man first…and a fine journalist. Everyone misses him! He left us too soon but God had a better and bigger assignment.. may he rest in peace,

  35. Earlene Mowry says:

    So terribly sorry to hear about Chuck. My thoughts and prayers are with you in the days ahead.

  36. Kimberly Adkins says:

    Pam and family, I’m so very sad to hear about Chuck’s struggles in his last days and passing. What an amazing man you had the privilege of sharing life with him. I pray that in the minutes, hours, days, weeks, and beyond that through your tears you find smiles as you think of amazing memories you made together. Much love from Florida to you all!

  37. Brad Stiteler says:

    Chuck was such a great partner to work with on school projects. I will miss his positivity, getting his calls, and having the chance to catch up. Very thankful to have known him. So sorry for your loss.

  38. Tim DeLauder says:

    I was deeply saddened and heartbroken to hear of Chuck’s passing. He was a legend in the community and a role model and inspiration for me. Even though I didn’t continue down the journalism path, it was Chuck who gave me my first opportunity as a stringer on weekends. He was a giant among Northern Ohio sports writers and an even better husband, father, and friend. He demonstrated a loyalty and dedication to the Shelby community for more than four decades. That length of service is unparalleled in this day and age. I will never forget him and I am proud to have called him a friend.

  39. Cindy Billheimer says:

    It is a sad day on so many levels with the passing of Chuck. He was always so dedicated to his profession. You would see him at so many different sport events I wondered how he did it all. He made so many athletes and parents very pleased with the pictures because he was creating memories. We will always remember Chuck for his passion and love for sports. He will be missed.My prayers are with you Pam and you children.

  40. Pam Roark says:

    Pam and family, so very sorry to hear about Chuck. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers

  41. Tim DeLauder says:

    I was deeply saddened and heartbroken to hear about Chuck’s passing. He was a legend in the community and a true giant in Northern Ohio Sports. It was Chuck who gave me my first opportunity as a stringer covering sporting events on the weekend for the Shelby Daily Globe. During the late nights in the newsroom or the afternoons at Napoli’s Pizza, he was always good for a story.
    Although, I didn’t continue down the Journalism path, Chuck remained a mentor and a role model for me. His dedication and commitment to the community for more than four decades is inspiring and unparalleled in this day and age. He was a great storyteller, a great writer, and an even greater guy. I was proud to call him a friend.

  42. Cathy Miller says:

    I am So Very Sorry for the Loss of your Husband and Father of your children, Pam. I Worked with Chuck at the Globe for 9 years. Chuck loved his job. He worked alot of late nights going to ballgames. Worked hard and didn’t complain. He will be Missed. We will keep You and your family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.Hugs to you, Pam

  43. John & Tammy Magers says:

    Pam and family, sorry to hear the news of Chucks passing. We saw him a lot at Wills baseball and golf games.
    Your family is in our prayers.

  44. Marcia Hall says:

    To Pam and family,
    I worked with Chuck for many years at the Globe before my retirement. So sorry to hear of your loss. He will be greatly missed. I know how hard it is to lose a husband. I also know that God can give you peace and comfort at this time. Just lean on Him. My prayers are with you all.
    Sincerely;
    Marcia Hall

  45. Jon Spencer says:

    Thankfully, my sports writing career and Chuck’s overlapped. We were both at it 40-plus years, which I don’t think you’ll see very much anymore, making us dinosaurs. The difference is Chuck’s life was so deeply woven into the fabric of the Shelby community. When I think of Shelby, the first thing or person I think of is Chuck. I can’t imagine leaving that kind of legacy. Whenever I covered an event in Shelby or an event involving Shelby athletes, Chuck was always there with his camera and notepad. Always. Journalism comes with its own unique stresses, but I never saw Chuck in a bad mood. And if I needed help with some background on a Shelby team or athlete he was always helpful — always — even though we worked for so-called “competitive” media outlets. The turnout for his calling hours Wednesday underscored just how loved and appreciated he was in Shelby. RIP Chuck. Our profession has lost a great one.

  46. bernie fernandez says:

    We graduated together. He’s 1 month older than me. Obviously, he died way too young. He was one of the first to friend me when I moved to Shelby the summer before my 9th grade year in 1976. Those of you that know Shelby know what a racist town it was. Chuck never showed any type of racism towards me. Chuck never in the 40-plus years I knew him ever said a negative thing about anyone in my presence. I could go 10-plus years not seeing Chuck, and run into him on the sidelines at a ballgame, and we would start talking like we just saw each other yesterday. And that was all because of him. He truly cared about everyone and made relationships with many which was obvious from the line of people during his calling hours. I waited over 35 minutes to get to his casket, and that was in the late afternoon. Chuck cared for and built relationships with so many because of his pictures and coverage of games in the community. Past players, cheerleaders, and parents of players were there today to pay their respect. Chuck didn’t do this for the money he made working at The Shelby Daily Globe for 40-plus years. He didn’t do this for the glory. He did this for the love of his community and the love he had for the people of his community.
    I told his wife and kids today he was the “OGG”, ORIGINAL GOOD GUY!
    You are truly missed by many and thank you for being a friend. And for befriending the one they called spic, wetback, wop, and nigger when I moved here and making me feel welcome, and making it easier for me to hear those racial slurs because of your kindness.
    RIP buddy!

  47. Trent Gove says:

    I was probably nine years old, sledding at a popular hill in Shelby when this older kid who was sledding with his friends stopped me and said ‘I bet you don’t know who I am, I work for your grandfather at the Globe.” That was the start of nearly a 40 year business relationship and friendship. You could count on Chuck to get it right, and to know the local sports scene like literally noone else. The knowledge he takes with him to the other side is a treasure and we are lucky to have shared and benefited from his experience while he was with us. I will remeber our chats, discussing Deadliest Catch, hearing the click clack of his index-fingers-only typing style, and especially the easy trust that what he told you and the words he composed were true, honest and unbiased. Good bye, friend. You are missed.

  48. Sheryl Potts says:

    Awww. Chuck. What a huge loss for your family, your friends, all of Shelby and everyone who knew you. Your smiling face, silly jokes and kind heart will forever be some of my best memories from our time together at the Daily Globe.

  49. Dave Winans says:

    We are so sorry to hear of Chuck’s passing. Our condolences to Pam and the entire Ridenour family. Following Shelby sports in the Globe was a daily routine for us for decades and his dedication to the youth of this town will be sorely missed. Chuck has been nominated to be in the Shelby High School Hall of Distinction and we hope to see him elected this coming year. Dave and Sue Winans

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