MARCH 06, 2025 – Waste & Recycling Workers Week is thrilled to launch its Wall of Honor, a tribute to the remarkable men and women who have elevated the waste management industry through innovation, service, and quiet determination. Leading the way is Charles W. Teelon, fondly known as “Uncle Charlie,” whose inspiring journey—from humble roots to a towering legacy—embodies the heart of this recognition.
Born in 1930, Charles W. Teelon built an extraordinary life with nothing more than a high school education and an unshakable work ethic. His path began with service to his country in the United States Navy from 1948 to 1953, followed by two decades as a New York State Police officer from 1953 to 1973. In 1973, 18 Years of his 20 year career were spent as a Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Investigator, he joined the United States Treasury Department, where he served until 1981. It was during this time, in 1974, that Uncle Charlie had a rare and unforgettable moment—he opened the vault door of Fort Knox and gazed upon the nation’s gold reserves, a testament to his trusted role in public service. His role there was a special agent in charge of security and also as a cheif officier of occupational, Safety and Health Divison.
That same year, 1973, marked the start of his waste management journey. While still with the Treasury, Charles purchased his first garbage company in New York State. What began as a single operation with Charlie working on the back of a garbage truck for three years, it grew into a thriving enterprise as he spent the next 25 years bringing nearly 100 small, family-run “mom & pop” waste companies under his wing. His vision and humility turned these modest businesses into a unified force. By 1998, he sold portions of his holdings to industry giants like Eastern Environmental/Waste Management and Casella Environmental, closing that chapter with the same grounded spirit that guided his start.
But Uncle Charlie’s story didn’t end there. In 1998, he acquired a gravel and stone mining operation in Upstate New York, transforming it into the launchpad for a new residential subscription service and roll-off company. Today, at 94, he still runs this facility, having grown it with about 14 acquisitions. In 2000, he added a transfer station to the operation, further expanding its reach. That same year, he purchased a document destruction company in New York State, quietly adding another layer of service to his community.
Charles’s ambition crossed state lines. In 1999, he headed to Florida, acquiring a construction and demolition (C&D) landfill, a transfer station, and a waste business in North Florida (which he sold in 2021). In 2000, he started a roll-off company in Florida and entered a partnership for roll-off and transfer station operations in South Florida. Each step reflected his deep commitment to meeting people’s needs with reliable, hands-on service.
At 94, Uncle Charlie remains a daily presence in his New York and Florida operations, driving approximately 320 miles roundtrip to work and back home. His energy and dedication are unmatched, a quiet reflection of a man who leads by example and lifts others through his actions.
“We’re privileged to spotlight Charles W. Teelon on our Wall of Honor,” said Steve Goode Director of Waste & Recycling Workers Week. “Uncle Charlie’s life—from opening the vault at Fort Knox to building a waste management legacy—shows what’s possible with hard work and a humble heart. He’s a true pioneer who’s made a difference, not for applause, but because it’s who he is.”
Waste & Recycling Workers Week invites all to join in celebrating Charles W. Teelon and the unsung heroes of the waste and recycling industry.