Charles Edward Sero Jr, of Waterloo, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends. He was 41 years old.

Charles was born on September 16, 1984, to Charles Sr. and Victoria (Schares) Sero in Iowa City, IA., and was raised his whole life in Waterloo. He was a 2003 graduate of Waterloo East High School. After high school, he worked at the Isle and other various places before settling in at Waterloo Walmart, where he was still working until he could no longer.

When Charles wasn’t working, he enjoyed his sports. Especially his favorite teams, the Chicago Cubs, Green Bay Packers, Waterloo Black Hawks, and Waterloo Bucks. He just loved sports in general so much that someday his dream was to go back to school for Sports Broadcasting.

He enjoyed his time as an umpire at Deerwood Park for the CVYSA, where he got to enjoy watching his children, nieces, and nephews play.

When Charles wasn’t involved in umpiring or watching his teams play, you could find him playing BINGO, Darts, or his favorite card game, Blitz. Often calling his family and friends, reminding them not to forget their quarters.

Anyone who knew Charles knew just how much of a people person he was. He loved talking to everyone. He took pride in helping anyone who needed it, even if someone needed a shirt, he would give you the one off his back.

Charles also had some great friends. Two of his best friends, Aaron Driscoll and Ryan Ambrose, never left his side when he got sick.

Charles is preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Ronald Schares Sr; paternal grandparents, Robert Sero Sr and Beatrice “Rita” Schuman; great grandparents, John and Genevieve Shafer, Joe and Mary Schares, and Beatrice and John Schuman; one aunt, Charmaine (Sherry) Campbell; uncles, Ronald “Buster” Schares Jr, Robert Sero Jr. and John Schares; three nephews, Mitcheal Jr., Layton, and Brayten; one niece, Kenlee; and one cousin, Jami Barta.

Charles is survived by his mom and dad, Charles Sr and Vicki Sero; two sons, Charles Sero III and Hunter Garbes; one daughter, Bryleigh Sero; three sisters, Nichole (Jeff Bunger) Sero, Noel (Charles Adams) Sero, and Nina Sero; maternal grandmother, Genevieve Schares; special friend Crystal Sherwood; special friend, Crystal Sherwood; his two best friends, Aaron Driscoll and Ryan Ambrose; 12 nieces and nephews; and many aunts, uncles, and friends.

There will be a service held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Parrott and Wood Funeral Home, 965 Home Plaza, Waterloo. Family will greet guests at a visitation from 11:00 -12:00 p.m., with a time of sharing starting at 12:00 p.m. before the service.

Charles was a laid-back guy, and his wishes for all who attend to wear any Green Bay Packers, Chicago Cubs, Waterloo Bucks, or Waterloo Black Hawks attire.

Memorials may be directed at the family.

The family would like to thank everyone who attended the benefit that was held this past Saturday.