The Life of CHARLES EDWARD FILLMAN
Charles Edward “Chaz” Fillman, 73, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Fleur Heights Sunday morning Jan 20th. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Janet Fillman as well as three children and one grandchild: Dr Rebecca Engen (Steven) of Charlotte, NC; Roberta Molloy (Michael) of Des Moines; John Fillman and daughter Kathryn of Deerfield IL. Chaz was preceded in death by his parents; Frank & Mildred, and three older brothers; Oliver, Merwin & Russell.
Chaz was a graduate of Simpson College, Indianola, IA. He received an MA in mathematics from the University of IL, Urbana. He also attended Drake University in Des Moines, Chicago University and Northwestern University in Evanston IL.
While at Simpson, Chaz was Vice President and Secretary of Lambda Chi Alpha social fraternity, Delta Chi Omega honorary English fraternity and President of Alpha Psi Omega honorary dramatic fraternity. He was treasurer of the student body and editor of The Simpsonian, a weekly campus newspaper. He was captain of the Cross Country and the Track Teams. He was the Iowa Conference Champion in both the high and low hurdles three times. He held the school record in the 110 yard High Hurdles for nearly 30 years. He also was a recipient of the prestigious Barborca Award, and later he was inducted into the Simpson Athletic Hall of Fame.
Chaz was always active in the community and had many passions. He loved spending time with family and friends playing games. He had a passion for researching Fillman Family history and genealogy. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church. Chaz loved music, singing in church choirs and with the Pride of Iowa Barbershop Chorus. He mentored through the Serve Our Youth (SOY) program. He also loved to organize and officiate track meets.
Chaz taught high school mathematics in Stuart, Williamsburg and Des Moines, IA before earning his Master’s degree. He went to work for Bell Telephone Laboratories as a systems developer. Next he was a Senior Systems Instructor for Mutual of Omaha before returning to the Bell System as a programmer at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. After becoming a Certified Electronic Data Processing Auditor and a Certified Internal Auditor, he transferred to AT&T in New Jersey as a Systems Auditor. He retired from AT&T in 1985 and moved back to Des Moines, where he and his wife opened a Sir Speedy Printing franchise.
After suffering a stroke they sold their business and Chaz went to work for Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield as a systems auditor. He regained recognition as a Certified Information Systems Auditor while there and held offices in the Central Iowa chapter of the EDPAA. Chaz retired from Wellmark in 2002.
In retirement Chaz was active in his church as a Stephen Minister Leader. He taught mathematics classes at the Des Moines Area Community College Urban Campus. He continued to be active as a track official at State High School meets, Drake Relays and Iowa State indoor meets.
Charles was a caring man with a big heart and lived his life full of joy. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend who will be deeply missed.
