Retired firefighter, volunteer, and community icon prepares to take center stage at this week’s Folsom Pro Rodeo
With the countdown on for one of Folsom’s most cherished summer traditions, this year’s Folsom Pro Rodeo will shine an even brighter spotlight on a man who has spent decades giving back to the community he calls home. Charlie Grows, a retired firefighter, lifelong resident, and beloved local volunteer, is ready to embrace his role as 2025 Grand Marshal when the rodeo saddles up this week at the Dan Russell Rodeo Arena.
“My family has been in Folsom since the mid-50s, and I’ve been going to the rodeo since it first started,” Grows told Folsom Times as he sat down to talk about serving his grandest role yet at the Folsom summer classic this year.
When it comes to Folsom and Grows, the two go hand in hand. There’s very few around town that don’t know the white bearded resident that is known for his hard work and philanthropy, which he has contributed to countless service clubs, businesses, organizations and individuals through the decades. According to Grows, his values are what has truly guided him through his lifetime of volunteerism.
“I’ve always been most comfortable working behind the scenes. I believe in always doing the right thing, because just when you think no one is watching, someone sees you,” he explained.
Now, after being asked to step into the spotlight as this year’s Folsom Pro Rodeo Grand Marshal, Grows admits being presented with the role has made a meaningful impression on him.
“For the chamber and rodeo committee to choose me to represent them in my hometown rodeo as Grand Marshal is both humbling and such an honor. I’m so proud and grateful to be a part of Folsom.”
From humble beginnings to hometown hero
Born in 1952, Grows moved to Folsom at age four, growing up in a family deeply rooted in service. His mother taught at Theodore Judah Elementary School, while his father was one of the first park rangers at Folsom Lake following the lake’s construction in 1956. The Grows family also operated Monte Vista Campground on the lake’s shores, creating early memories that would define Charlie’s lifelong connection to the area.
Charlie graduated from Folsom High School in 1971, but his career in public service began even earlier—at age 16, when he joined Folsom Fire. After a four-year stint in the United States Air Force, Grows returned home and resumed his firefighting career, eventually serving a remarkable 50 years in the fire service.
Grows has also been a cornerstone of the Folsom Pro Rodeo’s volunteer team, taking on everything from distributing ice and beverages to shuttle driving and post-event cleanup. His willingness to tackle any task, no matter how unglamorous, has made him an indispensable part of the event’s success.
Beyond the rodeo grounds, Grows is an active member of the Folsom Rotary Club, where he lives out the motto “Service Above Self.” Whether it’s showing up to community work parties or managing the Rotary bar—where he’s known for remembering everyone’s favorite drink—Grows continues to make an impact. His commitment to service hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“He’s someone who just shows up and does the work,” said Joe Gagliardi, CEO of Choose Folsom, who formally introduced Grows as this year’s Grand Marshal. “Charlie embodies what it means to serve your community with heart, humility, and consistency.”
The man behind the nickname ‘Uncle Charlie’
Outside of his public service career, Grows has lived a full and colorful life. He is an ordained minister who has performed at least a dozen weddings, and a proud father and grandfather—his granddaughter is named after him. He’s also about to take on a new adventure, launching a family business with his daughter Taryn: Uncle Charlie’s Firehouse and Brew, set to open later this year in Historic Folsom.
And though he may be honored this year for his leadership, don’t expect Grows to stop pitching in. He’ll be busy two-stepping on the dance floor each night, taking in the fireworks, and cheering on his favorite rodeo event—Mutton Bustin’—where young riders showcase courage and cowboy spirit.
“I love everything about the rodeo,” said Grows, who revealed that while he knew about the honor in advance, the real joy came from surprising his daughter. Taryn, a member of the Choose Folsom team, wasn’t told until the official announcement. “Seeing her reaction to it was the best part of this.”
Grows leads the show as a Folsom tradition returns Thursday
The 2025 Folsom Pro Rodeo takes place July 3–5 at the Dan Russell Arena and promises three nights of patriotic celebration, professional rodeo action, fireworks, and family fun. As Grand Marshal, Grows will help kick off each night’s events, continuing a legacy that stretches back to his childhood—and now comes full circle.
Tickets are available for July 4 and 5 shows. July 3 General Admission tickets are sold out but a limited number of upgrade tickets are still available. For tickets and event information, visit www.folsomprorodeo.com your direct source for Folsom Pro Rodeo tickets.
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