Charles Weidig Jr.

Charles Ferdinand Weidig, Jr., Ph.D., known to many as “Pops”, passed away in Baton Rouge, LA on December 27, 2022. Charles was born in Houston, Texas on October 24, 1945, and he then spent many of his early years in Memphis TN. He later returned to Texas where he graduated from Lamar High School in Houston, TX. He went on to his collegiate studies, attending Texas Christian University where he earned a B.S. in Chemistry. He then obtained his M.S. in Chemistry from Sam Houston State University before returning to TCU where he earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry.

While at TCU, he met the love of his life, Anne Harkey, whom he married on May 31,1967. Charles and his beloved bride moved to Michigan so he could begin a job at Henry Ford Hospital and later with Ethyl Corporation.

Charles never met a stranger. He always had a very strong desire to help others, and he quickly began volunteering at a Detroit soup kitchen as well as serving as a life coach for those in need. True to his desire to serve God and others, Charles served on the vestry of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church (Grosse Pointe, MI) and he also led the church’s youth group. The importance of mentoring those around him was always of the utmost importance to Charles.

During his 42 years with his loving wife Anne, Charles and Anne were blessed with two beautiful daughters, Laura and Amy. The family of four later moved from Michigan to Baton Rouge in 1983 to work with Albemarle Corporation where he became Global Director of Sales & Marketing.Charles traveled worldwide during his career, and always returned with fabulous stories of adventures.Charles had many friends throughout the world.

Charles was an Eagle Scout, who earned the God & Country award, which is given to a select few who desire to develop a deeper Christian faith. He continued this devotion by leading several Boy Scout troops over the years. Charles had a deep love for God, family, and country during his 77 years of life.

Charles loved bowling, was an avid TCU fan, and adored his dog, Diesel. Most of all, he loved his granddaughter, Ellie, who was the apple of his eye. He served as a father figure to her, as well many others throughout his lifetime. Charles spent countless years tutoring many students at Episcopal, and had a profound impact on all of their lives.

Charles was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anne Harkey Weidig; his mother Mae Ella Collier Weidig; father, Charles Ferdinand Weidig Sr. He is survived by two daughters, Laura Weidig (Clay) and Amy Arceneaux (Kirk); granddaughter, Ellie Shoemaker; grandchildren Gabrielle Hatfield (Preston), Dylan Arceneaux, Brennan Arceneaux; and twin sister Claudia Weidig Shields (Greg); three nephews – Marc, Phillip, and David Shields; sister in law Lanny Beery (Tom), three nieces, Lori Warren (John), Beth Beery, and Peggy Steward (Michael), who loved him very much. He is also survived by many cousins, great nephews and nieces.

Charles will be remembered for many years to come. He was a blessing to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

The funeral will be held at St. James Episcopal Church at 205 North 4th St., Baton Rouge, LA 70801 on Monday, January 2, 2023. Visitation is from 9-11 a.m CST, and the funeral will be held immediately thereafter at 11 a.m. CST. Interment 9 a.m. CST, Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at Resthaven Garden of Memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge (Episcopal School of Baton Rouge) or the Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area) .