Charles is survived by his wife of 64 years Marlene and children; Catherine (Artie) Guerrero, Chuck Ek, Carolyn (Joe) Schneider, Edward Ek, Daniel (Susan) Ek), Paul (Jennifer) Ek, 7 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren. Also survived by sisters; Betty Gogo, Constance (Marshall) Benas and brothers; Jim (Patty) Ek and Jack (Joan) Alberts.
Preceded in death by parents; Nels and Bernice and siblings Janet Procter, Thelma Haack, Violet Waid and Robert Ek.
Charles was born in Grand Rapids, then moved to Detroit where in 1951 he joined the U.S. Army in 1948 at the age of 17, and was stationed in Japan. In 1953 he moved back to Grand Rapids and met the love of his life Marlene Blakeslee, they were wed May 8, 1954.
He worked for the Sheet Metal Workers Union in Michigan from 1953-1980 and then in Orlando Florida from 1980-1989 where he helped construct Epcot at Disney World. He retired at the age of 58.
After retiring Charles and Marlene moved to Montverde where he built their home on Lake Apopka. Charles was a handy man and provided maintenance services to his neighborhood community.
Charles was a patriotic man, he loved coins and had quite a collection. He was happiest being out in the sunshine at Lake Apopka and would often say it was a million dollar view. Charles was very involved in the preservation of Lake Apopka and Oakland Preserve, where he served on the board. Due to illness he moved back to Michigan to be closer to family.
A Memorial Visitation will take place Friday November 16, 2018 at Reyers North Valley Chapel Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. until the time of a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m. Fr. Ayaub will officiate. Military honors will be accorded to Charles following the Memorial Service. Please make donations in Charles honor to Emmanuel Hospice.
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