Hi, I'm Charlie

I grew up in small towns in Arizona, am still here, and like to work on old motorcycles- and I'm a Mormon.

About Me

I am a pretty average guy. I wrestled and played football in high school and worked on old cars and motorcycles. I served a mission in Japan for my church from '83- '85. I married a local girl and we have 5 kids between the ages of 13 and 24- 4 grand kids. I am a heavy equipment mechanic. I work mostly on large off-hiway Caterpillar machines. My family has snowmobiled at 9200 feet in the mountains near my home for almost 20 years. My favorite pastime is fixing up old motorcycles. I've owned and ridden a couple of BSA's- one from WWII that came from Egypt- a couple of old Triumphs, 3 old Harleys, and a couple of Indians. My latest project is a 1935 Indian Chief. I ride it every week when it's not torn apart- people are amazed that it will make the 85 mile round trip to work at 65+MPH. I've worked with the 12-18 year old young men's group in my church for most of my adult life and have done a lot of camping. The most extreme weather I've camped out in is 17 below zero Farenheit.

Why I am a Mormon

I am a Mormon because I have practiced the basic principles of Mormonism and they have made me a better person. Studying and following the teachings of our Savior has brought me personal peace when nothing else would. I am not perfect but I do try to be the best person that I can be. I love my wife and family- all that I am and own means nothing compared to them and my church family. Joseph Smith said he saw and spoke to Our Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ- I believe him. I know that by studying and trying to live the teachings in the Book of Mormon I can become more like our Savior.

Personal Stories

How can your talents and gifts bless others?

Like a lot of motor-heads I started mechanic work when I was 14 years old. I usually carry my old toolbox, jumper cables, and a jack in the car when I travel. Sometimes I get the feeling that I should offer help when I see someone having car trouble. I have been able to make some pretty "creative" repairs that have helped people get home- always makes me feel good.

Please explain the part prayer plays in your life?

...when I pray at least morning and night my life goes more smoothly and I am better able to deal with problems I may have- it's as simple as that.

How I live my faith

I try to be the best dad, friend, neighbor, and community member that I can be. I try to use the things that I own and the things that I am good at to help other people and to brighten their lives.

Why do Mormons believe in the Bible?

Charlie answered...

...because it is the word of God given to ancient prophets thru inspiration and revelation. Studying the Bible will make us more able to know the will of our Heavenly Father and the Savior concerning us.

Why is family so important to Mormons?

Greg answered...

After I joined the Mormon Church I learned about the importance of families. Not long after that I realized that if I was going to follow this teaching I needed to tell my father that I loved him. That was very difficult for me since my dad and I argued so much. I spent the better part of 2 weeks trying to determine how I could do this. When the time came I found that the words came more easily than I had thought. From that point to the time he died, about 22 years later, he and I had an entirely different relationship. We were now friends. And I found how much I regretted all our arguments while growing up. And now I find that I miss him and more fully understand how important our families are.