Joe Rossi Hall of Fame

Hall of Fame Inductee Charles (Chuck) A. Denney Jr. – La Junta Charles (Chuck) A. Denney Jr.’s life was an inspiration to all who knew him. He lived life with passion and the ongoing desire to help those around him. Chuck's career was in the broadcasting business in both Lamar and La Junta, Colorado. As owner of the La Junta station, he was active in all aspects of community activities, including sports broadcasting and morning talk shows. His achievements included being selected as Colorado's Broadcaster of the Year, president of the Colorado Broadcasters Association and a member of the selection committee for the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. In his free time, he was a public servant, acting as mayor of La Junta as well as Otero County commissioner for eight years. Chuck's other main interest was as a Rotarian, becoming a member in 1969. Highlights of his tenure with the club included the "Service Above Self" award given by Rotary International, one of only 150 honored for the award worldwide each year. He helped organize and fundraise Rotary's contribution of 2,800 wheelchairs to those in need in Mexico as well as participating in administering polio vaccines to children in Egypt. Chuck proudly served in the 101st Airborne Division of the Army 1953-1955. He was an avid Ohio State fan, having been born and raised in Columbus, and loved baseball and golf. He spent several years umpiring and was selected to umpire a Colorado State High School baseball championship game.