Charles Coulson, former director of Harvard Varsity Club, dies at 69

Former Harvard Varsity Club Director Charles “Chuck” Coulson died on April 11, 2000, in Johnstown, Penn., where he was visiting family. He was 69.

Coulson was a devoted long-time supporter of Harvard Athetics. A fixture at the University and a consummate host at both the Varsity Club and Harvard Faculty Club, Coulson was known for his enthusiasm and skill – whether directing the most formal dinner or his famous tailgates at Harvard football games.

Coulson served as director of the Harvard Varsity Club from 1988 until his retirement in 1996, during which time he became one of Harvard’s friendliest faces. Coulson’s expertise in hospitality and entertaining reflected a genuine love of Harvard athletics.

Before his tenure at the Harvard Varsity Club, Coulson held several positions in club and hotel management. From 1958 until 1983, he served as general manager of the Harvard Faculty Club, where he, his wife, Liz, and son, Chuck, made their home for many years.

While Coulson worked to provide the best possible service to the University community through facility improvements and constant attention to the details of running a successful dining club, his reputation as a genuine “people person” is remembered first.

Coulson was a graduate of both the Virginia Military Institute and Cornell University, where he graduated in 1956 with a bachelor of science degree in hotel administration.

Coulson’s son, Charles Coulson Jr., lives with his wife, Meghan, and children, Shannon and Conor, in Redwood Shores, Calif.

A reception in memory of Chuck Coulson will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on May 4 at the Harvard Faculty Club, 20 Quincy St. Family and friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Harvard Varsity Club, 65 North Harvard St., Boston, MA 02163.