Chuck was known as the Honorary Mayor because he had such a big impact on Bethel Island for a period of 47 years. He owned and operated Delta Sportsman, the place fishermen knew as a great place to buy fishing tackle and bait, and get information on the best places to fish and what fish were being caught. He contributed prizes and an official weigh-in station for many years for the Island's annual Fishing Derby, sponsored by the Bethel Island Chamber of Commerce.
Philippart was a member of the Board of Directors of the chamber for many years. In 1965, he played a big part in the chamber's reorganization. It was seen as the chamber's "new start," and from then on the organization became a power on the Island.
Philippart also served and gave generously of his time and resources to other Island organizations, including the San Joaquin Yacht Club and Sportsman Yacht Club. His impact on the Island's economy, plus its civic and social life, was recognized in 2004, when he was voted Citizen of the Year.
Chuck's first wife was Wanda Peseau, who, with Chuck, owned and operated Wanda's Gangplank restaurant in a building next door to the Delta Sportsman, now owned and occupied by the Mexican restaurant La Vella. The Gangplank was a popular spot for many years; one of the first restaurants on Bethel Island Road in downtown Bethel Island. Wanda Peseau died some years ago.
In February of 2006, Chuck sold the Delta Sportsman to James F. Cuyle, Jr., who also has a business on Taylor Road called Top Jimmy that sells and repairs boats.
Philippart is survived by his present wife Marilyn; daughter Cheri Lynn Hayes; granddaughter Deena East; great-grandson Ryan East; and step-children Dennis and Rick Peseau, Rolf Dalleske, Tammy Jacoway, and numerous step-grandchildren.
Memorial services were held at the Brentwood Funeral Home on Tuesday, Nov. 28. Burial was private.
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