Remembering our Chief Aggravation Officer, Charles Wilson.

Hi, everybody. I’m sending this message to let you know that our Chairman and CEO, my Dad, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 8th. He was 101 years young. We called him our “Chief Aggravation Officer,” but that was just for fun. I’ve been thinking about what other titles he might have held throughout his life, and I’ve come up with this new list.

Chief Humility Officer.

My Dad was born during the Great Depression and lost his Dad at a young age. His widowed Mom, Minnie, raised him and his older brother Ernest on a shoestring budget, but with a lot of love. Even when she didn’t have spare change for the boys to go to the movies or get a burger, she always had a dime for someone in need. This spirit of kindness and generosity lives on at Ernest to this day.

Chief Selflessness Officer.

Dad followed his brother Ernest’s lead by enlisting in the Army during WWII. During a battle in Germany, he got hit with shrapnel. But even when he was injured, he still brought six soldiers to safety. For his bravery, he was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

Chief Garage Officer.

When my Dad got home from the war, Ernie met him at Union Station. He gave him a hug and something else: a business card that read, “Ernest Paper Company.” That’s how this whole thing started, with two brothers in a one-car garage and a crazy dream that one day they’d build it even bigger. I’m happy that my Dad can now tell Ernie just how well the dream is going.

Chief Papa Officer.

My sister and I came into the picture after my Dad married my mom Betty in 1954. He was truly my hero, having survived the loss of his father at a really young age, miraculously coming home from WWII. Whenever there didn’t seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel, he persevered. He’ll remain my inspiration for the rest of my life.

Chief Philanthropy Officer.

Just like his Mom Minnie taught him, my Dad dedicated his life to giving back to others. Whether it was through JVS SoCal, his mentorship to others or through the other charitable organization we partner with here at Ernest, he knew what it was like to come from nothing. Which made him always give something back. He probably said it best himself, “When you can help someone, that’s the best thing in the world.”

Chief Longevity Officer.

We’ve known Mr. Wilson for many things here at HQ in LA. He was a push-up king, he was a soft-shoe dancer and he loved old blue eyes, Frank Sinatra. But the most incredible thing is that he was still going to work at 100. Sure, to oversee the business and sit on the board. But mainly to see all of you. His proudest accomplishment was having people smarter than him who were truly working with and not for Ernest.

Chief Farewell Officer.

Yes, this is a sad time for me. But it really should be a celebration. That’s what my Dad would have wanted. Stay tuned on The Insider and our social channels for our Mr. Wilson tributes. And remember, no matter what your title is here at Ernest, we can all live by the example my Dad gave us. Help other people when they’re in need, be humble and remember that every day is a gift.

I love you, Dad. Say hi to Mom and Ernie for me.

—Tim