Charles McKeeHappy Valley, CACharlie (Charles) McKee passed away at Mercy Hospital on September 5th, 2017 after a short illness. He was born on February 10, 1929 in Santa Ana. His family later moved to Parlier, CA where he attended high school. He then attended Cal Poly- San Luis Obispo in Civil Engineering. He started working for what is now CalTrans in Fresno. He met the love of his life, Jane Hammerich, on a blind date and married her in February of 1950. He was predeceased by Jane, his parents and sister, Corrine. He is survived by his children and their families, Kathy White, (Bob, Emily and Keeley) Gail McKee (Russ and Kyle Stephens), Diane Sargent (Ted, Marianne, Kim, Melanie and Kate), Gary McKee (Susan and Heidi). Charlie transferred to the Redding office in 1961. They moved to Palo Cedro in 1963 where they built their dream home along Cow Creek. Charlie and Jane were active in making Palo Cedro a better place as Jane was on the school board and Charlie was part of group that started the little league baseball program. They were both active in the Cow Creek 4-H Club as leaders. They moved to Janesville in 1992 and enjoyed the beauty of the high desert. Charlie had always been interested in geology and after he retired from Caltrans with 40 years service. They started CJEM Minerals and Gems. They spent the winters in Arizona where they bought mineral specimens and the summers on the gem and mineral show circuit. They had a great time traveling and meeting new friends. They were both active in the Shasta County Gem and Mineral Club. After Jane passed in 2004 Charlie moved to Happy Valley to be closer to family. He continued to be active in the gem and mineral business. Private family services have taken place. Please make donations to the Junior Rockhounds, c/o Shasta Gem and Mineral Society PO Box 990424, Redding, CA 96099 or a library of your choice.Please sign the guest book at http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/redding/