Charles Wayne “C.W.” Wathen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles Wayne “C.W.” Wathen, age 75 of Dahlonega, GA on Friday October 20th, 2023.  C.W. was born on March 5, 1948, in Owensboro, Kentucky to the late Irvin and Lena Wathen and was of the Catholic faith. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Pamela S. Davis.

C.W. was a dairy farmer, a master of tool and die, and a general contractor.  He rode bulls, broncs, team roped, tie down roped, barrel raced and just about anything else he could do on a horse. He always said his greatest achievement was passing his passion for horses on to the greatest love in his life, his daughter, Bella.  

In the late 80’s he moved to Georgia and continued his construction business.  Eventually, he settled in Dahlonega, GA where his love for animals turned from a hobby to a life mission and now his legacy.  In 1992 C.W. began a non-profit called Chestatee Wildlife Preserve.  He was a passionate animal lover, dedicating his life to rescuing exotic animals. He was a kind-hearted soul and always put others before himself. He was a true friend to many, never meeting a stranger and had friends all over the world.     

C.W. is survived by his wife Kim Palmour Wathen, his daughters Bella Wathen, Brenda J. (Kevin) Owens, Tori Hunter, and Shawn Ashworth.  He is also survived by his siblings Joe and (Sara) Wathen of Owensboro KY, Brenda and (Bruce) Hagan of Whitesville, KY, Judy and (Russ) Payne of Owensboro KY, Sharon and (David) Simmons of Utica, KY, Stephen and (Adriana) Wathen of Cumming, GA, six grandchildren, six great grandchildren and many other loving relatives.  Special friends Susan Moss, Alexis Clark, Ty and Shelley Panter, Charlotte Johnson, Ed Maxwell, Donald Savage, Jerrell Sullens, Shelley and Jimmy Anderson and so many other wonderful friends, too many to list.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. May C.W. rest in peace.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA  30504 is in charge of arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com