Charles Anthony Elizondo

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Charles Anthony Elizondo. On July 22, 2026, at the age of 68, his spirit and energy returned to the universe, as he believed all things eventually do. Charles was born on September 20, 1957, in San Antonio, Texas, where his life’s journey began and where he built a legacy of knowledge, service, and unwavering devotion to his family. 

Charles was a man of intelligence. His curiosity and passion for culture and science enriched not only his own life but the lives of those around him. He was admitted to the U.S. Naval Academy in 1978 with the goal of becoming a pilot, and later an astronaut. His poor eyesight posed a barrier to this goal, and he left in 1980. He went on to be admitted to the College of Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin with the goal of becoming an aerospace engineer. He attended from 1980 to 1984, ultimately graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature. He often used this as an example to teach his children that it is okay to change paths. He would often tell them that having a degree is more important than what the degree is in. He believed that education was one of life’s greatest gifts and would often tell his children that knowledge is the only thing that someone cannot take away. His love for science and discovery was evident in the countless lessons he shared. He would have many philosophical discussions with his son on the origins and purpose of life, as well as the afterlife. He supported an early interest in science with his daughter, taking her to Analytical Scientific in San Antonio to pick out a telescope so they could look at the moon, stars, and planets together on summer nights. He would take her to the planetarium and watch the Science Channel with her at home, leading to her having far more anxiety about the threat of black holes than a child should have. On his days off, there was a 70% chance that he was at home watching Ancient Aliens.  

Charles was known as a hardworking and selfless man whose tireless work ethic inspired everyone who knew him. Throughout his career in the car business, Charles became a trusted source of wisdom and expertise. People looked to him for advice and guidance, which he freely shared. In recent years he also became involved in the real estate business, where he made many wonderful friends. Whether as a father or stepfather, he took great pride in providing for those he loved. He taught his kids fishing knots that they still use to this day. His children spent many beautiful summer days with him, swimming at the Canyon Dam, getting pizza and shaved ice or picking up fresh peaches in Kerrville. He made it a priority to create cherished memories with his family and was expressive with his love and affection, always letting his children know how loved they were and how proud he was of them. His wisdom, kindness, generosity, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. 

Charles is reunited in spirit with his parents, Jose “Jesse” De Jesus Elizondo and Celia Soliz Elizondo; his beloved son, Charles Nicholas Elizondo; and his brother, James Edward “Jim” Elizondo. 

His love and legacy continue through his adoring daughter, Chelsea Lessing; his siblings, Marie Reed, Jesse Elizondo, Linda Phares, Xavier Elizondo, and Lizz Postel; along with a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, and his beloved “granddogger,” Ellie, who brought him endless joy and laughter. He spoiled her with lots of toys and treats.  

Charles will be remembered as a devoted father, loving brother, loyal friend, and a man whose intellect, kindness, quiet resilience, compassion, and selfless spirit touched countless lives. 

Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, his love, curiosity, and wisdom live on in those whose lives he touched.

“In sorrow we must go, but not in despair. Behold! we are not bound forever to the circles of the world, and beyond them is more than memory.” — J.R.R. Tolkien

“Daddy, I love you more than two universes put together and even more than that.”— Chelsea