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Remembering WWII Veteran, Attorney, and Ernest Packaging Co-Founder A. Charles “Chuck” Wilson

via Business Wire

(June 16, 1924 – November 8, 2025)

A. Charles “Chuck” Wilson, decorated World War II veteran, respected attorney, and co-founder of Ernest Packaging Solutions, passed away peacefully at his home November 8 in Los Angeles, CA. He was 101. Known for his relentless work ethic, humility, and devotion to family, Wilson helped transform a two-person garage startup into a nationwide packaging company while maintaining a decades-long legal practice and always giving back to the community.

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Charles, Betty & their four grandchildren

Charles, Betty & their four grandchildren

Early Life and Values

Born June 16, 1924, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Wilson was raised by his widowed mother, Minnie Wilson, alongside his older brother, Ernest, during the Great Depression. Their humble upbringing instilled in him a lifelong sense of generosity and empathy. “Our mom didn’t always have money for us to go to the movies,” Wilson would say, “but she always had a dime for someone in need.”

A Decorated Veteran

Wilson served as a U.S. Army sergeant in Europe in WWII. During a battle in the Hagenau Forest of Germany, his battalion was met with heavy artillery fire. Despite sustaining injuries in combat, he carried multiple wounded soldiers to safety, a selfless act of bravery that earned him both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star.

Entrepreneur and Company Co-Founder

After returning from the war, Wilson stepped off the train at Los Angeles Union Station, where his brother Ernie handed him a business card and said, “We’re in business.” In 1946, the Wilson brothers, the only two employees, launched Ernest Paper Company from a friend’s garage, personally delivering orders and gaining loyal customers.

“If your people are better than you, they’ll do a great job.” —Charles Wilson (Our Founder: A Family Business)

A Lifelong Commitment to Learning

As he was building Ernest Paper, Wilson earned his Juris Doctor degree from the USC Gould School of Law in 1950 and practiced law well into his 90s. USC Gould recently profiled him as “possibly the oldest living alumnus,” recognizing his 75-year connection to the school and his lasting commitment to the profession.

From Humble Beginnings to a Legacy

The brothers’ small operation evolved over the years into Ernest Packaging Solutions, a national leader in customized packaging with 17 locations across the U.S. and more than 600 employees. Wilson served for decades as Chairman & CEO, helping define the company’s entrepreneurial spirit and culture of connecting with others.

A Family Man

Wilson married Betty Seigle in 1954 and they raised two children together, Minda and Tim. Betty preceded Charles in death April 22, 2009. Tim would go on to join him at Ernest, where he currently serves as President. Wilson is survived by his son and daughter, as well as four grandchildren Henry, Matthew, Michelle and Sari who knew him as a loving and encouraging “Papa.” Charles is also survived by his wife Joan Cohen Wilson and her daughters Fanya and Natalie.

“Every day, I'll measure myself by his standards of excellence: be humble, be open-hearted and find a way to make the other person laugh.” —Tim Wilson

Giving Back

Wilson was dedicated to community service throughout Los Angeles. His 100th birthday tributes highlighted his volunteer work with JVS SoCal and other civic organizations. These tributes also showcased something extraordinary: Wilson still went to work at 9 a.m. sharp every morning at 100 years old. He’s been honored by the local media multiple times and even recognized by the Los Angeles Dodgers for his lifetime contributions.

Values that Live On

Those who were fortunate to work alongside Wilson describe his humility, discipline and care for people as Ernest’s foundation. Wilson himself summed up his philosophy best: “Give more to others than to yourself. Be humble and you’ll get back tenfold.” If you’d like to donate to a great cause in honor of Charles Wilson, please give what you can at jvs-socal.org/donate.

About Ernest Packaging Solutions

Founded in 1946 by brothers Ernest and Charles Wilson, Ernest Packaging Solutions is a privately held, family-owned business offering custom packaging design, manufacturing, and supply chain solutions. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Ernest serves clients through 17 locations across the U.S. with 600+ team members. For more information, visit www.ernestpackaging.com.

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