Charles "Sparkie" Hauer passed away on July 27, 2011, in Fort Collins, at the age of 74, surrounded by the family he loved so well. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. at the Merino High School gymnasium.

Sparkie was born June 20, 1937, in Carpenter, Wyo. He grew up in the Grover area, where he was active in sports of all kinds. Upon graduation from high school, he attended college at UNC and served in the U.S. Army.

He then became a teacher and coach at his hometown school for seven years. After that he moved his family to Sterling, and worked as the Director for Admissions for NJC. His last job in education was at Merino, where he was the Superintendent of Schools for 18 years. He remained active with "his school" even after retirement, by offering advice to administrators, athletes, and anyone else who happened to show up.

He loved watching all kinds of sports and supported his grandchildren and other students throughout the years. Sparkie also enjoyed volunteering at the Sterling Regional MedCenter.

He was a member of the Peace Lutheran Church, the VFW, and Riverview Golf Course.

Sparkie is survived by his beloved wife, Chris, of 48 years. They have two daughters: Lori Atkin of Fleming and Lisa Osborne of Washington, D.C. He is also survived by his son-in-law, Doug Atkin; his brother and sister-in-law, Carl and Susan Hauer of Greeley; and his sister, Betty Thompson and brother-in-law, Kenny of New Raymer. He was especially proud of his four granddaughters, Kylie, Bethany, Ashley and Christina. Sparkie had many special friends who will also remember him with fondness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and one sister.

Memorial contributions can be made to the family for the Charles Hauer Scholarship Fund for the Merino School graduates.