Charles Wesley Reisse “Wes”

Reisse, Charles Wesley, Jr. “Wes” (May 14, 2026) was not a man who measured his life by wealth or recognition, but one who led instead through quiet conviction, steady action, and enduring faith—living by the words of Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works.”

 

Wes was born on March 7, 1938, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and from the very beginning carried a spirit rooted in faith, shaped by quiet devotion, compassion for others, and a deep and abiding trust in God that guided him throughout his life.

 

After graduating from Drexel University with a degree in electrical engineering, Wes stood at the forefront of a technological revolution few could have imagined—writing computer code on punch cards for massive machines that filled entire rooms, helping lay the groundwork for the digital world now so deeply woven into everyday life.

 

After retiring, Wes devoted himself even more fully to his faith, finding renewed purpose through volunteering at the Crisis Ministry at First Presbyterian Church of Germantown, where he spent his later years quietly serving those most in need with compassion, humility, and grace.

 

In the end, his life reflected a simple but profound truth: “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” — J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings

 

As important to Wes as his faith was, so too was his family. He was the beloved husband of Margaret Ann (née Steffy), and a loving father to Mary Alice (Dan Tabor) Reisse and Charles W. Reisse III. He will also be lovingly remembered by his three grandchildren.

 

Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Wes’ Life on Saturday, June 20, at 11:00am at First Presbyterian Church of Germantown, 35 W. Chelten Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19144. Interment will be private.