1954 - 2026
Norman Charles Carpenter, lovingly known as Charlie, was born on February 22, 1954, in Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Eugene O. Carpenter and Reba L. (West) Carpenter. He grew up in Lahoma, Oklahoma, where he learned the value of hard work and craftsmanship from his father—skills that shaped both his life and his career.
Charlie found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved water skiing at Salt Plains—his siblings proudly said he was the best skier of them all—relaxing at the family cabin, and spending time with the people he loved. His adventurous spirit led him to motorcycles and road trips with friends, always chasing new horizons. He also cherished his horses and spent many years enjoying trail rides that brought him peace and freedom.
He worked in the oil fields as a truck driver and pumper for many years before joining Advance Food. Eventually, he opened his own welding business, a craft he truly enjoyed and took pride in until his retirement. Charlie was a man of faith, family, and quiet pride. He met Janie in 1982, and they married in 1986, building a life, starting a family, and sharing memories.
Charlie was deeply proud of his children, Brandi and Cody, and found immense joy in his twin granddaughters, Peyton and Bailey.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Janie Carpenter; daughter Brandi Carpenter; son Cody Carpenter; and granddaughters Peyton and Bailey Curtis; his siblings Marvin (Cherlyn) Carpenter, Collette Pierce, Roger Carpenter; 4 nieces, 5 great nieces, 3 nephews, 6 great nephews; cousins and two aunts.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Reba Carpenter, and his sister Colleen Choate.
He lived by simple, steady principles— “Don’t slam the door,” and “Say what you mean and mean what you say.” Those who knew him will smile at the sound of those familiar words, reminders of the straightforward honesty and gentle firmness that defined him. His love for the Lord and his family was the cornerstone of his life. Charlie’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him—through the stories shared, the lessons passed down, and the love that continues to ripple outward.
Celebration of Life Service will be Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 10:00 am in Zion Lutheran Church, Lahoma with Pastor Randy Foote officiating. Cremation arrangements are by Anderson-Burris Funeral Home and Crematory, Enid.
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