CHARLES LEE BUILTA March 17, 2023
It is with immense sadness that the family of Charles “Chuck / Chuckles / Chuckie” Lee Builta announces his unexpected and peaceful passing on March 17, 2023, at the young age of 51. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones until the very end.
Charles was well known for his bright smile, amazing sense of humor, and well – his mohawk of course. Due to his ceaseless compassion and selflessness, he was loved and cherished by countless friends and family. Many people use the saying “he would give you the shirt off of his back”, but not many people knew someone who would literally give you his shirt or even the last dollar to his name. Charles taught many to live life to its fullest and cherish loved ones and every moment as if it is your last.
He grew up in White Rock, New Mexico with his beloved sister and many of the friends he kept throughout his life. His father fondly remembers him as a high energy and spirited social butterfly cruising the town on his well-known Big Wheel tricycle. Everyone gravitated towards Charles. Many would say “If Charles didn’t like you, there was something wrong with them”.
Charles loved Punk Rock, Heavy/Thrash Metal, and enjoyed Madonna and Lady Gaga. He often made friends while attending live concerts – even with the band members. Charles also enjoyed working on cars and going off-roading with friends. He was never afraid to try something new and was always “game” for an adventure. Charles was also well known for his incredible swimming talents, specifically his record-breaking time while swimming the butterfly stroke. You would often find him browsing record shops to find additions to his collection. He enjoyed hiking, mountain biking and playing his bass guitar with dear friends in jam sessions. You would even find neighbors occasionally sitting outside soaking up the infectious joy they shared.
Charles will be gravely missed. He is survived by his father Lee A. Builta, stepmother Peggy Bradberry, sister Kerry Forbes (Builta), brother-in-law Thomas Forbes, loving Fiancé Gail Marie Helm, daughter Zjael C. Millard (Builta), son-in-law John P. Millard, sons Skyler and Kyle Builta, and grandchildren Astrya and Aiden Millard.
Please join Charles’ family and loved ones in celebration of his life on April 8th, 2023 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM (MST) at Fuller Lodge, 2132 Central Avenue in Los Alamos, NM. His family would love to see attendees arrive in their favorite band/concert attire.
Charles was very passionate about supporting the 988 New Mexico Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and to the Animal Humane Society of New Mexico.
If you would like to donate to the 988 New Mexico Suicide & Crisis Lifeline foundation, please follow this link: https://www.facebook.com/donate/1297422540809784/.
If you would like to donate to the Animal Humane Society of New Mexico please follow this link: https://animalhumanenm.givecloud.co/fundraisers/in-loving-memory-of-charles-l-builta?gcr=GKDPW6ZE
