Charles A. Lacuesta

Charles “Chuck” Lacuesta, 51, of Pasadena, California, passed on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, following a sudden cardiac event.

Charles was born April 8, 1975, in Los Angeles, California, to Ruperto “Toto” and Flordeliz “Flor” Lacuesta, and was the younger brother to Maress Lacuesta Barrett. Charles was a graduate of La Salle High School and University of California, Santa Barbara.

Raised by immigrant parents, Charles learned the importance of hard work, family, and education at an early age, values that guided him throughout his life. His large Filipino family instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility, humility, and determination. He carried those lessons into every part of his life, working hard to build a meaningful career while remaining devoted to his family and committed to helping others succeed.

After graduating from UC Santa Barbara with a degree in political science and government, Charles began a successful career in technology. In 2002, Charles began at the California Credit Union (CCU), where he would go on to work for nearly 24 years. Starting as a Systems Administrator, he worked his way up to Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. Charles was a trusted leader, advisor, and mentor. CCU’s President and CEO wrote to colleagues that Charles was “calm, humble, and deeply caring” and “approached every challenge with determination and grace, while always making those around him feel supported and valued.” He did the same with his family and friends. Charles had a gift for seeing potential in others, often offering guidance, confidence, and support before they fully saw it in themselves. Through his quiet mentorship and genuine belief in people, he helped many pursue new opportunities with courage and purpose.

Charles was a quietly accomplished man of integrity who rose through dedication, curiosity, and perseverance. Though he achieved great success in his career, he remained grounded, generous, and low-key, using his success to support others and make a lasting impact on the people and communities around him.

In his personal life, Charles was the one people counted on—steady, dependable, always there. Fiercely loyal as a son, brother, uncle, friend, and co-worker, he showed up without hesitation and never looked for credit. Always composed, Charles brought a calm presence and understated wit that eased even the toughest moments. He spoke thoughtfully, and when he did, people listened.

Charles loved gathering with friends and family, golf, camping, traveling, and good food. His adventures took him to Europe, Hawaii, and Japan. Always active and eager to enjoy the outdoors, he could often be found on the golf course with friends, or e-biking and exploring campsites throughout California. He also had a special appreciation for great meals and discovering hidden gems throughout the country. More than anything, Charles valued the joy of sharing meaningful conversation with the people he loved.

Family was the foundation of Charles’ life. He believed in showing up, offering support, and creating moments that brought family together. Chuck took pride in caring for his parents and giving back to them for the sacrifices they made. As a brother, he was a steady source of support, guidance, laughter, and love. He led his nieces by example, showing them the value of humility, hard work, and generosity. At family gatherings, he was truly the life of the party. With his easygoing humor and natural charisma, he brought warmth, laughter, and effortless conversation to every room.

Charles is survived by his loving parents, Ruperto and Flordeliz Lacuesta of Los Angeles, California; his sister, Maress Lacuesta Barrett, nieces, Hannah and Elise Barrett, and brother-in-law, Matt, of Roswell, Georgia; and countless cousins, aunts, uncles, friends, and co-workers. His legacy lives on in the relationships he nurtured, the success he built, and the many lives he touched through his selflessness, leadership, and generosity.

Visitation will take place on Monday, July 6, from 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Tribute Center, Forest Lawn Covina Hills, 21300 Via Verde Drive, Covina, California 91724. A vigil and prayer service is scheduled from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 7, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 3883 Baldwin Park Blvd, Baldwin Park, California, 91706, followed by a graveside service at Forest Lawn Covina Hills - Honor Garden Terraces. Please join us for a Celebration of Life reception at South Hills Country Club, 2655 South Citrus, West Covina, California 91791 from 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM.