A memorial service is planned next month for Charles Hosch, the Gainesville native who has been missing in the northeast Georgia mountains since last November.
“Friends, this is to let you know that there will be a memorial service for Charles on Saturday, September 19 at 11:00 a.m. at University Park United Methodist Church in Dallas,” says a posting on the Bring Charlie Home website. “All are welcome, in person or by livestream. The family will also greet friends at the church the evening before the service from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.”
Hosch disappeared after he stopped in Union County on his way back to Texas after visiting friends and relatives in Gainesville. His last known location was on a trail he had hiked several times while growing up in Gainesville.
Formal searches ended in March when spring vegetation growth began to emerge on and along the mountain trails.
This is a March 17 posting on the site:
From Thursday to Sunday, search experts from across the Southeast executed a carefully planned, multi-agency search weekend.
Knox County Search and Rescue, Morgan County Search and Rescue, BUSAR, individual members of Christian Aid Ministry, and K-9 teams led by Dr. Tracy (Trace) Sargent and Allan and Karen Padgett deployed across Blood Mountain in a collective effort.
The professionalism, determination, and heart these teams bring to this mountain — again and again — moves us beyond words.
And March 15:
Over the weekend our SAR team returned to Blood Mountain in Georgia to continue the search for Charles Hosch before spring vegetation fully greens up and limits visibility. Our teams worked diligently covering and eliminating additional search areas, but unfortunately no items belonging to Mr. Hosch were located.
We are grateful for the agencies and volunteers who joined our efforts and continue to give their time to help bring closure to this family.
Thank you to Morgan County Volunteer Rescue, BUSAR, Trace Sargent, Matthew Gibson, and SARDOG for your dedication and partnership during this search.
Please continue to keep the Hosch family in your thoughts and prayers.