Charles "Chuck" Dimond Goertzen, 82, of Columbia, South Carolina, died on Friday, August 29, 2025.

Chuck grew up in Idaho where he learned to appreciate the gifts nature had to offer. He enjoyed studying Idaho history and geology and was a Boy Scout leader for several years. Chuck was a lifetime member of the Idaho Gem Club, where he served two terms as their President. He and his wife liked to attend Gem Club field trips where they went out in the desert looking for attractive stones to cut, polish, and make into jewelry. They also taught rockhounding classes through continuing education in Boise, ID. He was an avid car enthusiast, racecar driver, and engine builder. Chuck's appreciation for automobiles helped fuel his 40-year career in the automotive parts industry. He loved our country and honorably served our nation for two years in the US Army. He and Geri met when they were both 13, dated during Junior High and High School and then broke up and went their separate ways. Geri and Chuck reunited 34 years ago and were together until his death. Chuck will be remembered for his kindness and thoughtfulness to everyone he encountered.

Survivors include his wife, Geri Whitlatch; stepchildren, Sherry Smith of Emmett, ID, Kit Smith of Horseshoe Bend, ID, and Lauri Smith of Meridian, ID, Lisa Payne (Larry) of Elgin, SC and Rebecca Orwig of Charleston, SC. He also leaves behind his brother, John Goertzen; sister, Suzanne Goertzen, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Vic and Doreen Goertzen, he was preceded in death by his sister, Dolly Baugh and his grandson, David Smith.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Idaho Gem Club, 2823 North Cole Road, Boise, ID 83704.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.