Charles John McKaskle

On May 10, 2017, the fire in Charles J McKaskle’s barbecue pit went out for the last time. He was being cared for at the Windmill Rehab Center in Lubbock, TX.

Born in Stanton, TX Aug 1, 1937, to Moncue and Virgie (Hatten) McKaskle, Charlie was the middle of five children raised on their farm on the Andrews highway. Charlie went to the Flower Grove School, and served in the Air Force for four years. He returned to West Texas in 1963.

Charlie married Jan Fields of Big Spring on March 7th, 1964. They moved to Fort Worth to work for General Dynamics, but soon moved back to the Big Spring area and together they raised lots of cotton, a family, big gardens, and just about anything else he set his mind to. At one point he worked with Texas A&M to raise red fish and shrimp using salt water from the local draw. He sold and restored cars in his body shop, and he made beautiful brass and copper pieces — one took First Place at the Texas State Fair. He was also a member of the Grady ISD school board and attended the Tarzan Baptist church.  They moved to Lubbock in 2002, where they attended the Experience Life church, did a bit of travel and enjoyed grandchildren. They were very fortunate to have the assistance and friendship of Maggie Vasquez as their health faded.

Charlie made many friends throughout his life. He never met a stranger, and he loved to talk and eat. It didn’t hurt that he could make brisket so tender that “teeth were optional” and ribs so good you’d wrestle your cousin for the last one. Hepassed on his love of working with his hands and his love of excellent food to his sons and their families.

He is survived by his brothers, John Henry of Comstock, Billy of Del Rio; sister, Venita Davis of Acuff; daughter Mara of Fredericksburg; sons, Greg of Austin, Tim of  Amarillo, and Mike of Lubbock; and seven grandchildren.

He will be joining his wife, Jan; his older brother, Dudley; and his parents who passed before him.