Charlotte L. Char Weidman

Weidman, Charlotte L. (“Char”), 85, died December 29, 2013. Born in Wichita and a lifetime resident, Char graduated (National Honor Society) East High 46 and Wichita University 50, majoring in Economics. She was a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, and was elected to Phi Kappa Phi national honor society. Following college she began a 43-year career with Garvey-owned Petroleum, Inc., displaying her outstanding leadership skills and advancing through increasing responsibilities to become its Vice President. Char was brilliant, witty and charming, and personified the saying “cream rises to the top.” She was the first woman elected to the Board of Directors of The Wichita Club, The Petroleum Club and The Candle Club. She was a long-time member and past president of the Oil Secretaries Association. In the mid-1950s she discovered a new passion, duplicate bridge, and ultimately achieved the rank of Gold Life Master. With friend Virginia Miller, Char taught classes at WSU to hundreds of students and befriended many of them. She held elective positions in the local and regional governance for duplicate bridge. Despite a diagnosis of Parkinsons and entering a care facility, Char retained her zest for life and keen interest in business, politics, and local events. She was able to maintain contact with her wide circle of friends through her last days. Preceded in death by parents, Frank and Leila Weidman, and younger brother, Ron. Char is survived by sister-in-law, Jane Weidman; niece, Anna Weidman Robinson (Charles); nephew, Chris Weidman (Renae); and great-nephews, Walker Robinson and Logan Weidman, all residing in California. Her family acknowledges with gratitude the loving care she received from her “Three Angels,” Donna Littleton, June Walburn, and Peg Clingerman. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made in Chars name to the Wichita State University Foundation, 4205 E. 21st St. N., Wichita, KS 67260; or Lewy Bodies Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Rd., S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047. Funeral Service will be held Thursday, January 2, 2014 at 10:30 A.M., at Downing Lahey East Mortuary. Viewing will precede the service from 9:30 - 10:30 A.M.