KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. — The family of a man with Triad connections said he died while clearing debris for Hurricane Helene. Those who knew him are mourning while sharing the lasting impact he had on the community.
The unforgettable, 72-year-old, Chuck Hoyle died on Sep. 27 while clearing a tree brought down by Hurricane Helene.
"We just keep hearing from people we didn't even know he knew, whose lives he had effecting, things he had done. He was just one of those people that once you met him, you didn't forget him," said Hoyle's sister, April Shauf.
Hoyle was hurt in a small plane crash forcing him to spend half of his life in a wheelchair, even with a disability, he thrived.
"I believe the plane crash was in 88' and he became a paraplegic as a result of that, but he did not let that hold him back. He found new ways to be active," explained Shauf.
After Hurricane Helene, Hoyle was clearing debris at his King Mountain home, when a tree fell.
"It was one tree that he didn't necessarily have to be doing. My other brother was over there helping him and that was just kind of the way he was. He was like 'Oh I'll take this one down,' and this time is just fell the wrong way," recalled Shauf.
Hoyle worked with Wake the World, a non-profit that originated in Asheboro. Hours before the accident, Houle was on the phone with WTW founder, Greg Hodgin.
"I don't think I've ever had that happen. Where I've talked to somebody and then two hours later," Hodgin continued, "Nothing was wrong with them, two hours later, they're gone, it's just hard sometimes."
Even though Hoyle is gone, his impact is everlasting.
"I remember him telling me many times when things were down to just reach out and help other people and get your mind off yourself and that's the best healing you can have. And that's the biggest lesson I will take away from him," said Shauf.
Hoyle's celebration of life will be held on Oct. 19 at David Baptist Church in Kings Mountain.
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