The BJCP is saddened to learn of the passing of Charlie Gow of Fairfax, VA. Charlie was an accomplished brewer, a National judge and served as Associate Director from 2008 through early 2014. He was always passionate about ensuring that the feedback given by BJCP exam graders was not only technically accurate, but also grammatically correct.
Those who had the opportunity to taste beers with Charlie knew he had an impressive palate and an excellent knowledge of beer styles, particularly those from Belgium and the West Coast. But Charlie was much more than a beer judge; he was a friend who was able to elevate a beer tasting into a lasting memory. As BJCP judges, we are often asked what are some of the best beers we have ever tasted. For many of us, the answer includes at least one pint of a special brew we were fortunate to have shared with Charlie.
But while it’s incredibly sad that Charlie was taken from his wife Stacy, his family and his friends far too early, he would want to be remembered for the experiences and memories he helped create, whether they were related to brewing, fishing or the fiery chili peppers he was so fond of growing. Please raise a toast to him when you have your next pint and remember that every day matters.
Eulogy by Scott Bickham