DR. CHARLES ANTHONY CARANNA

Charles graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1960. A natural at math and science, he pursued his studies at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh where he was a proud member of Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. He later graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine and entered residency at Mt. Carmel Hospital in Obstetrics & Gynecology. Following the completion of his medical residency, Charles proudly entered the United States Army in 1973 as a commissioned officer, attaining the rank of Major. He served for two years at Kenner Army Hospital at Fort Lee in Petersburg, Virginia, and always spoke fondly of his time serving his country.

Following his service in the U.S. Army, Chuck returned to Columbus, Ohio, where he devoted more than four decades to his medical practice at Columbus Obstetrics and Gynecology-even serving as president of Columbus OB/Gyn Society (1992-1993) . Known for his kindness and ready ear, he compassionately cared for his patients and helped welcome thousands of babies into the world. Anywhere his family went around Columbus, they were almost guaranteed to hear, “Your dad delivered me!” when meeting someone new.

Chuck had many hobbies and interests, but his greatest passion was woodworking. A master craftsman and luthier, he created hundreds of pieces over the years, including fine furniture, string instruments, clocks, and toys. His work lives on in meaningful spaces, including the cabinet encasement of the organ and the altar furniture at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Upper Arlington, Ohio and the altar at Catholic Newman Center at Miami University in Oxford, OH. He strongly advocated for education in the arts, and was often found at his daughter’s school, Columbus School for Girls, leading woodworking classes for students. He also was an extremely accomplished needlepointer, completing many complex tapestries that are proudly displayed in his home.

Chuck was an active and dedicated member of several organizations throughout his life. He served as president of the Woodworkers of Central Ohio and president of the International Food & Wine Society. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, a true servant of his Catholic faith. Additionally, he was involved in several community theater productions as a lead actor, organizations like the Columbus Symphony and BalletMet, and was a dedicated musician (piano and classical guitar). Chuck’s enthusiasm, enduring work ethic, and strong leadership skills made him the true embodiment of a “Renaissance Man” through and through.

Known for his kindness, steady wisdom, and unwavering love for his family, Chuck was guided by a deep faith in God and a lifelong love of country. Chuck is survived by his greatest love, his wife of 40 years, Deborah Jane (Kennedy). They celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary last year and were true partners in every sense–working together as physicians, raising their children, and traveling the world side by side. His children–Lisa (Jim) Marshall, Charles (Jeannine) Caranna, Jr., and Marissa (Scott) Caranna–were his greatest pride, and he cherished every moment with his grandchildren, Joseph Wood, Madeline (Will) Marshall, and Natalie Marshall. He is also survived by his siblings Michael (Diana) Caranna, Carol Mayerich, and Anthony (Ana) Caranna, and sister-in-law Nancy Caranna as well as many nephews and nieces, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved son-in- law, Stephen Marshall; his brother, Victor Caranna; and his brother-in-law, John Mayerich.

Visitation will be held at Schoedinger Northwest, located at 1740 Zollinger Road, Columbus, OH 43221, on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Andrew Catholic Church on Wednesday, January 28 at 10:30 a.m. with burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew Catholic Church or St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Attn: Father Michael Cannon, 5394 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota, Florida 34242.

Chuck will be deeply missed by all who knew him and will be lovingly remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to family, faith, and community. To share memories or condolences, please visit www.schoeding er.com.