Charlie Moss, First to Swim 100 yds. Fly Under One Minute and Masters Great, Passes

Charlie Moss, 1928-2001

CHARLIE MOSS, the great USMS and Michigan Masters swimmer, and former outstanding University of Michigan swimmer, died July 12, in his own bed, surrounded by his family, his favorite Sousa marches playing and sending him on his way. At the church, his son called him a gentleman with the highest ethics and values; he was truly a gentle and kind man.

Charlie was the first man to break a minute for the 100 yard butterfly; he was often introduced with this fact at meets. He had a fine career at UM but had even greater success in Masters; he was a 17-time All-American, broke 25 USMS records, held 19 Masters' World records, and had 48 #1 swims.

In March, Charlie received the first Michigan Masters Lifetime Achievement Award at the Midland Masters Meet, a meet he ran for 26 consecutive years. He was given the award not only because of his prowess as a swimmer, his service as a meet director, but because he was a terrific role model for all of us Masters' swimmers in Michigan. He encouraged so many people to begin training for fitness and competition, which he loved.

He was involved for many years with Midland Dolphins swim team, supporting his children who were swimmers. He was also the Chair of the Michigan Masters Review Committee, because everyone knew that any disputes would be resolved fairly with his leadership.

When he retired from Dow, he became the Aquatics Director at his beloved Michigan for several years. He was devoted to the sport of swimming.

His family, community and teammates concluded the funeral service by singing the Navy hymn, an almost perfect conclusion (The priest suggested that UM's fight song which Charlie had requested could be sung outside after the service!) for someone so devoted to water. We will miss that long, lanky guy, swimming the butterfly with the breastroke kick, speaking with that deep, polite voice, but mostly we will miss his enthusiasm for this rejuvenating and renewing sport of Masters' swimming. His great spirit, though, will live on in his wonderful family and devoted Masters' teammates.

–Jennifer Parks

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