News | Port St. Lucie

Fort Pierce Surfing Icon Charles Williams Dies at 70

March 14, 2025
11:17 am

Fort Pierce surfing icon Charles “Chuck” Williams, renowned for crafting custom Impact surfboards, passed away on March 11, 2025, at the age of 70. According to a GoFundMe campaign organized by his niece, Melissa Wilson, Williams had recently suffered a stroke and was hospitalized at the time of his death.

Legacy of Impact Surfboards in Fort Pierce

Williams, originally from Okeechobee, began his surfing journey and surfboard craftsmanship as a teenager near Daytona Beach. He rose to international prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, achieving a global surfing ranking as high as 20th. Despite worldwide recognition, Williams maintained a humble and local-focused approach to his craft, working from his home workshop on Old Dixie Highway in Fort Pierce.

“Most of the people I build boards for are people I surf with,” Williams told TCPalm in a 2017 interview. “I like to keep it local.” His custom surfboards typically took about a month to complete, although good surfing conditions could extend that timeline.

Surfing Community Honors Local Legend

The surfing community across the Treasure Coast has expressed profound sadness at Williams’ passing. Local surf shop Fort Pierce Surf & Skate described him as “a beloved member of the surfing community.” The nonprofit Treasure Coast Board Riders Club also paid tribute, referring to Williams affectionately as “our chief.”

Derek Rohn, co-owner of Sharky’s restaurant on North Hutchinson Island, recalled first meeting Williams at age 11. Rohn admired Williams’ fearless approach to surfing, noting, “He was on a whole different level than any other surfers around here as far as surfing waves of consequence or just big, scary, heavy surf.”

Community Support and Memorial Fund

A GoFundMe campaign to assist with Williams’ medical expenses and estate needs has raised nearly $30,000 from 168 donations as of March 13, 2025. Funds will also support caring for Williams’ beloved dog, Jetty, and funeral arrangements.

“We appreciate the outpouring of love and support for Charles,” Wilson wrote on the fundraiser page. “This has been a tremendous gift to our family, and we know Charles is at peace and will be missed by all of you.”

Williams famously described surfing as his personal “Fountain of Youth,” stating, “I plan to keep surfing until I die. Ponce de Leon came to Florida looking for the Fountain of Youth. It was right under his nose, but he missed it. The Fountain of Youth is that salt water.”

For additional insights into surfing history and culture, visit the National Ocean Service.

Who was Charles Williams?

Charles Williams was a renowned surfer and surfboard maker from Fort Pierce, Florida, known internationally for his custom Impact surfboards.

What made Impact surfboards special?

Impact surfboards were custom-made by Williams, tailored specifically to individual surfers, reflecting his dedication to quality craftsmanship and local community.

How did the surfing community react to Williams’ passing?

The surfing community expressed deep sorrow, sharing heartfelt tributes on social media and recognizing Williams’ significant contributions to the sport.