Charles L. Shearer

Charles Lawrence Shearer August 9, 1941 – February 12, 2025

Charles Lawrence Shearer, 83, of Mercer, entered God’s kingdom on February 12, 2025, at Allegheny General Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." – James 1:12 Born in Wilmington Township on August 9, 1941, Charles was the son of the late Francis James and Virginia “Elsie” Shearer. In 1958, fate intervened when he met the love of his life as she walked home from the Penn Theatre in New Castle. Four years later, on November 2, 1962, Charles married Linda Kay (Anderson) Shearer at Hoover Heights Christian & Missionary Alliance Church. For 63 years, she stood faithfully by his side, and in his final moments, she held him close as he stepped into eternity with his heavenly Father.

Charles built a strong work ethic as a truck driver for Koppers, Overnite Transportation, and UPS Freight, always providing for his family with dedication and integrity. Even after retirement, his love for trucking never faded—he continued driving trucks for his son-in-law, Bob, until the age of 78. Beyond his career, Charles had a lifelong passion for boating and fixing cars. One of his favorite stories was about how, at just 14 years old, he and his mother, Elsie, changed the motor in his first car. That moment sparked a love for classic cars that lasted a lifetime. Throughout his life, he owned and restored more than 47 classic cars, flipping them as a beloved hobby. Over the years, Charles earned the nickname “The Fonz” not only because of his striking resemblance to the television character and love of motorcycles but also because of his steadfast strength and unwavering leadership. He was a man of conviction, never compromising his morals or relying on others, instead forging his own path through hard work and perseverance. His children saw in him the example of an honest man—one who instilled in them the values of resilience, integrity, and devotion. He was a fiercely protective husband, father, and grandfather, always ensuring the safety of his loved ones. He never coddled his children but taught them to stand strong in the face of adversity. He was their greatest defender, always standing up for them. He ended every conversation with the comforting words, “Call me when you get there.” Outside of spending time with his adoring family, Charles found joy in life’s simple pleasures— tending to his yard, caring for his beloved dogs, and enjoying his favorite Old Milwaukee beer, affectionately calling it “the big orange.”

Charles is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; his daughter, Kim (Bob) Perrine of Mercer; his sons, Chuck (Jill) Shearer of Mars and Scott (Christine) Shearer of New Wilmington; and his beloved grandchildren—Kaitlin, Kristin, Amanda, Nathan, Bryce, Madeline, and Ava—as well as his great-granddaughter, Everly. He is also survived by his brother, James Shearer, and two sisters, Helen Knight and Charlotte Macek.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Robert Shearer and Francis E. Shearer; his sisters, Mildred Davis and Sarah Forkey; and his brother-in-law and best friend, Eugene Knight.

A private service will be held for immediate family. No visitation is scheduled at this time.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Allegheny General Hospital for their compassionate care.

Charles will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Arrangements entrusted to the SHERMAN Funeral Home & Crematory Hermitage, PA

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