Charles Earl Counts of Ironton, Missouri passed away on May 7, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born November 26, 1946 in Ironton, Missouri the son of the late Cecil “Earl” Counts and Betty Jane (Surritte) Counts.

Charlie graduated from Bismarck High School in 1965. He then proudly served our country in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1969 serving two tours in Vietnam. Following his service to our country, he co-owned and operated Counts Auto Sales with his Dad and brother. He was a car enthusiast and especially loved NASCAR. One of his favorite personal cars was a 1965 red Cadillac convertible. Charlie also enjoyed 4 wheeling and camping. He liked firearms and enjoyed competing at shooting matches. Charlie was a Mason and a member of the Leadwood Masonic Lodge, the AmVets and Bismarck V.F.W.

On August 22, 1970 he was united in marriage to Miriam Dora George. To this union two children were born: Stephanie Standage and husband, Ray of Fredericktown, Missouri and Steven Counts of Bismarck. Two grandchildren are also left to mourn the passing of their grandpa: Adam Knight (Emelyn) and Lauren Fitzwater (Brandon Theabeau.

Charlie is also survived by three sisters: Jeanette Juergens (Paul) of Sullivan, Missouri, Sharon Maessen (Bruce) of Terre Du Lac, Missouri, and Glena Goodman (the late Walter) of Park Hills, Missouri and his brother: Dale Counts (Sandra) of Ironton, Missouri.

In addition to his parents, Charlie was preceded in death by a stillborn brother; Robert Counts and Stanley Counts (Diane of Bismarck, Missouri), and his sisters: Norma Baker (the late Joe), Maxine Knovac (Bob of Sioux Falls, South Dakota), and Baby Girl Counts.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 12:00 Noon at Bryson Chapel in Pilot Knob with Pastor Teresa Slough officiating. Services will begin with a Masonic Service. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. prior to the services. Interment with full military honors will be in the Masonic Cemetery in Bismarck, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Community of Christ Church in Bismarck or the American Cancer Society.