Charles D Gaither

Charles Dennis Gaither, 74, died peacefully at his home in Washington, IN on May 6, 2021 with his loving wife, Eileen, by his side. Dennis was born on April 19, 1947 to Loren and Helen Gaither (both deceased). He graduated from Washington High School in 1965, and shortly afterwards enlisted in the Army proudly serving as a sergeant and medic in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive. Upon his honorable discharge, Dennis graduated with a B.A. in Psychology from IU in 1974 and became a master in radio broadcasting, clothing and retail, food, and chemical sales. Later, he shared his infectious and magical persona traveling the country and sharing his genuine love and joy with children as a professional Santa.Dennis was an active member of the Eagles and the American Legion in Washington where he proudly serviced as Chaplin. His inspirational messages were heard by many throughout the local community. Dennis was an active lover and collector of music of all genres, had a passion for cars, especially convertibles, an avid sports fan, particularly IU and racing events, and was a lifetime member of the IU Alumni Association.Dennis is survived by his wife Eileen (Oexmann) Gaither of Washington and her children Laura Sweeney of Zionsville and Bethany Grimes of Evansville (deceased) and their husbands and children, son Brandon Gaither and his partner of Tamarac, FL, his sister Phyllis Ketchem of Washington, brother Quinn Gaither and his wife of Greenfield, sister Janel Fromme and her husband of Wake Forest, NC, his aunt Arlene Cole of Warsaw, IN, and several nieces and nephews.A graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery located at 919 Willow Street in Vincennes on Thursday, May 13 at 11 a.m. EDT. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home in Washington is assisting with the arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family through goodwinsieversfh.com