Obituaries

On November 25th, 2023, we sadly bid farewell to our beloved Charlie Bernstein, whose journey was marked by bravery and determination. In 2016, a car wreck profoundly changed his life, resulting in paralysis. However, Charlie faced this challenge with remarkable spirit and resilience, supported by his family, friends, and colleagues at Raven Software and Activision.

Charlie's Army, comprising 263 compassionate individuals, was inspired by his motto, “Shit happens. Roll with it.” Despite his condition, Charlie approached his recovery with fierce determination and humor. His friends, Jennifer White and Jason Robinson, joined him in this journey, helping him strive for a life as full and independent as before.

Professionally, Charlie dedicated two decades to Raven Software, an Activision studio, contributing significantly in various IT roles. He was proud of his work, which included supporting numerous Activision video game titles.

Charlie's social life was equally vibrant. He was a regular at Capricon and CONvergence science fiction conventions, hosting the Cow Asylum party. He was also an active member of the Madison Homebrewers and Tasters Guild and volunteered at the Great Taste of the Midwest. Charlie was known for his skill in board games, fantasy football, and video games, enjoying both the competition and the friendships formed through these activities.

In his final years, Charlie became a cherished member of the Linden Cohousing community, contributing his technological expertise and organizing gaming events. He was even elected to the Linden Cohousing Board shortly before his passing.

Born in Richland Center, Wisconsin, Charlie spent most of his life in the Madison area. Following his wake and celebration of life, his remains will be privately returned to his family farm.

Charlie was a guiding light, demonstrating what true perseverance and resilience looks like. His attitude, even in the darkest of times, was nothing short of inspirational. We are all infinitely richer for having known him. His indomitable spirit made us all better versions of ourselves.

Charlie was preceded in death by his father, Russell Bernstein, his mother, Mary Ross, and his nephew Asher Trillium. He is dearly missed by his family, including his brothers Arthur (Angie) and their children Rowan (fka Vedarose), Kalerei, and Connor (fka Marina); and Herman (Emily) with their children Jonathan and Erica, as well as the larger community that knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Linden Cohousing Owners Association (107 Sutherland Ct, Madison, WI 53704) and the Madison Homebrewers & Tasters Guild (PO Box 1365, Madison, WI 53701).

A wake and celebration of his life will be held on February 4th, 2024, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Goodman Community Center Brassworks, 214 Waubesa St, Madison, WI.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.