Charles D. Travis

Aug 23, 1938 — Oct 18, 2026

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Charles D. Travis. Photo courtesy of Koons-Russell Funeral Home

Charles D. Travis Jr., 88, passed away on October 18, 2026. He was born on August 23, 1938, in Holyoke, Colorado, to Charles and Grace Travis. A descendant of Charles and Emma Travis, he came from a family that proudly traced its roots to Colonel William Barret Travis, who commanded the Texan forces at the Alamo.

After finishing school, Charles joined the United States Air Force, serving for four years from 1957 to 1961. During his service, he drove trucks and worked as a firefighter.

Back home in Holyoke, Charles met the love of his life, Helen Wachs, at a local sweet shop. In 1961, the two drove to Las Vegas, where they were married, and then made a new home in California. There, Charles worked as a machinist for North American Aviation and later Boeing, crafting parts for multiple Space Shuttles. He and Helen eventually returned to Colorado, where he worked at Prescott's, making medical equipment.

Charles was a devoted Freemason and a gifted woodcarver who loved working with his hands. Of the many pieces he created, his carving of Moses stands out as a treasured example of his skill and patience. He also maintained a regular gym routine well into his later years.

Whatever life brought, Charles met it with steady faith and a calm reassurance that his family will always remember: “We'll get through this.”

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Helen A. Travis; his son, Steven L. Travis; and his daughter, Sandra L. Travis. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Grace Travis, and his brother, Clifford Travis.

Graveside services will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in Burlington.

Memorial contributions may be made out to the Burlington VFW Post 6491 and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.