Charles J. Wilson, a police officer at the University of Delaware for 24 years, died July 25. He was 72.

He retired from the University with the rank of sergeant in 2005.

Sgt. David Platt in the UD Police Administrative Services Unit remembers Sgt. Wilson as a valued mentor.

“I worked with Sgt. Wilson for about 14 years,” Platt said. “When I graduated from the New Castle Police Academy in April of 1991, Sgt. Wilson was my field training officer for a 12-week period. After being released from field training in June of 1991, Sgt. Wilson, or Chuck as I knew him, was my squad sergeant for the next several years. Chuck then transferred to the Criminal Investigations unit where he continued to serve UD Police. Although I did not work directly with him as much, it was an honor to work with him in any capacity.

“In my humble opinion, I have never worked with an officer who had so much common sense and natural instinct while performing his duties,” he said. “Chuck is by far the officer who has had the biggest positive impact on me in my 26-year career as a police officer here at the University of Delaware.”

Charles J. Wilson

Born in Wilmington, Delaware, Charles Wilson attended Wilmington High School and then served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years. He was an avid sports fan, and his favorite teams were the Phillies, the Fighting Irish and the Colts. His favorite pastime was fishing.

Sgt.Wilson is survived by his wife of 55 years, Barbara "Joan" (Janvier) Wilson; four children: Barbara Maguire (Phil), Charles Jr. (Melanie), Michele Torrence (Clyde) and Sandra Elder (Matt); and a twin brother, James Wilson (Leona), as well as 10 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

A celebration of his life was held Aug. 2. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Condolences may be left online.