Charles Winston Van Kula

Charles (Charlie) Winston Van Kula passed away in his home on December 25, 2022 at the age of 56. All who knew him witnessed his generous and kind personality. Charlie was raised in Big Rapids, Michigan and graduated from Big Rapids High School. He moved to Holland after high school where he established his home, raised his son and built his career. Charlie was a gifted musician whose guitar skills brought joy to all who had the privilege to hear him play. He was also a hockey player and played well into his adulthood. He shared both his musical and hockey passions with his son, Ian. In his professional life, Charlie was influential in the building of many quality homes, both through his own entrepreneurial endeavors with CVK Construction and in collaboration with other builders throughout western Michigan. The pinnacle of his building career was the personal design and construction of his castle, Van Kula Castle, in Allegan County, complete with turrets, swinging bookcases and secret passages. It even had an elevator for his dog.

He is preceded in death by his father, George Van Kula Jr, his mother, Marion Michele Gallaudet Willison, his step-father Robert Willison, and his brother-in-law, Rex Owens. He is survived by his son, Ian Van Kula, grandson Quentin Van Kula, brothers, George Van Kula III (Cathy) and David Van Kula (Marlo), and sisters, Susan Owens and Katy Slater (Todd), and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service, followed by a luncheon, will be held on January 28, 2023 at 11:30AM at Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant (216 Van Raalte Ave) in Holland Michigan. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to Guiding Light in Grand Rapids at https://guidinglightworks.org/