Chuck "Skipper Chuck" Zink

What a beautiful man! It had to be around 1970 or maybe 1971, I was a shy 2nd grader who appeared on the show to recite an essay about Mary McLeod Bethune. Learning now how adamant Mr. Zink was about integrating the show and being so kind and respectful to all children means so much.

When the Popeye Playhouse and Skipper Chuck show started in 1956, I was 5 years old living in Miami. I watched the show just about every day. If I remember correctly back in 1956 WTVJ Ch. 4 was the only TV station we had. I think they started in 1949 broadcasting in Miami. I also think they were the first TV station in Florida. Those were the good days in Miami and Skipper Chuck made it fun. In the early 1970´s I ended up working across the street from the WTVJ studio in downtown town...

Watch everyday as a kid and was on the show once. One of my closest friends growing up his dad was the pianist on Arthur and Company and I got to meet Mr Kink a few time through Peter´s dad. I have some of the best memories of growing up in North Miami as a kid! He is a big part of my childhood.

Loved watching Chuck every day. Wish those days were still here. He was truly a blessing to us kids and our parents. He's in a special place now called Heaven. . . .

How did I get so lucky? As a child in the 50's and 60's I watched your show everyday. As an adult in the mid 70's as a PSC for MDA I'd coordinated visits for the children to enjoy you and your crew in the studio. You were at every MDA event and of course the Annual Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon.

You made us smile, laugh, taught us how to love, learn, lessons in tolerance and so much more. I've stored each of those moments under 'treasured memories' for instant recall. ...

Skipper, you were part of my childhood. Rest in peace.

In 1960 I turned 5 years old. 3 of my friends and I went on The Popeye Playhouse for my birthday. Mr Zink was a most gracious host. He made all of us feel welcome and I'll never forget how special he made us feel.

I remember Chuck landing in a Bell Helicopter at Gulfstream Park in the early 60's, we were there for a kids show of some kind. He got out and shook our hands before taking over as MC of the event. All was a class act and someone you could hold up as an example of what is right and decent.