Charles Catanach

Charles “Charlie” Catanach, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Santa Fe on September 15, 2026. He was born on January 30, 1964, in Santa Fe, and remained deeply connected to the place that shaped his life.

Charlie was a skilled plumber who worked for Saddleback Plumbing, where he built a career with the steady hands and practical know-how that became such a defining part of who he was. He later retired from Saddleback Plumbing. He also attended college at TVI in Albuquerque, New Mexico, continuing to build the knowledge and abilities that served him so well throughout his life.

To those who knew him best, Charlie was unforgettable for his spirit. He was the family jokester, someone who could bring laughter into a room and make time together brighter. He was a “MacGyver” kind of guy, remarkably gifted with his hands and able to build just about anything. That resourcefulness was matched by a patient and kind nature. He showed gentleness not only toward people, but toward animals as well. He loved his family deeply, especially his nieces and nephews, and he was loved in return by all of them.

Charlie also enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life rich and memorable. He was a devoted fan of Notre Dame Fighting Irish football and the Dallas Cowboys, and he loved going fishing and taking boat trips with his brother. Those moments of recreation, companionship, and shared enjoyment will remain treasured in the hearts of those who spent them with him.

He is survived by his brothers Mike and Marcella Catanach, Leroy and Anna Catanach, David and Michelle Catanach, and Andrew Catanach. He also leaves behind a large and loving circle of nieces and nephews: Melanie and Josh Neal; Aaron and Kelsey Catanach; Brian Catanach; Chris and Madeline Catanach; Desiree Catanach; Tasha and Joe Rachal; David and Anna Catanach; Alexandra and Daniel Paul; Christina Catanach; Celina Catanach; James and Viviana Catanach; Adrianna Catanach; and Michael and Gwindolyn Graham. Charlie’s love for his family was one of the great constants of his life, and his memory will continue to live warmly among them in stories, laughter, and the many things he built with both his hands and his heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents Jimmy and Gloria Catanach, and brother Ronnie Catanach.

Charlie will be remembered for his humor, his skill, his loyalty to family, and the kindness he extended so naturally to others. His absence will be deeply felt, and his life will be remembered with affection and gratitude by all who knew and loved him.

Services are pending at this time.