Charles A. Filius 1961-2023

The National Cartoonists Society lost a longtime member with the death of Charles A. Filius on Jan 24th. Charles passed unexpectedly following surgery on what was his 62nd birthday.

Charles was a true “jack of all trades” artist, working in nearly every facet of the graphic arts world one could think of including publication layout and design, logos and corporate identity packages, newsletters, illustration, web design, computer graphics, visual presentations, advertising, and more. As a cartoonist and author, Charles self-syndicated a single panel comic called “Paradox Found” and created an adoption-themed comic strip, “Is It Mine?” which touted the perspective of closed adoption records through the eyes of the adult adoptee. He wrote several books and illustrated multiple humorous books in his distinctive, high energy style. He also did humorous illustration for magazines and publications, educational posters, spot and gag cartoons, caricatures, art for t-shirts and products, and many other projects for clients like the National Crime Prevention Council, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, The President’s Council on Physical Fitness, C-Span, Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus, Turner Broadcasting, Cracked Magazine and more.

Charles was an active member of the NCS, serving as the chairman of the Orange County Chapter for many years. He was a constant presence at NCS events, especially the annual Rueben Award Weekend. His infectious laugh, bright sense of humor, and undimmable high spirits will be greatly missed.