Charles Stanley Lawler

Charles “Chuck” Stanley Lawler, age 19 at the time of his death in 1950, is coming home to be buried next to his mother after being killed during the Korean conflict, and finally being returned to his family.

Chuck was born Dec. 26, 1930 and spent most of his life growing up in Phil Campbell, Alabama with his Aunt Flossie Franks. As a teenager, he moved to Traverse City, MI. and lived with his mother and step-father Elsie & Louis Otto while attending Traverse City Public Schools until he enlisted in the military.

Chuck was a member of M Company, 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Calvary Division as a Corporal in the US Army. It was in the vicinity of Unsan, in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea in which he was determined to be killed in action.

His mother held on to the belief that her son would be returned to her, and in death they will reside side by side at Oakwood Cemetery.

He is survived by his sister Beverly (Robert) Wagner of Traverse City and cousin Cleoith (Linda) Franks of Willard, Ohio. Also surviving are nieces and nephews; Chris, Eric, Matt, Bill, Sue, Jimmy, Jackie, Edith, Pam, Mike, Michelle, Todd, Tim, Dee and Trenton. He was preceded in death by both parents, brothers Wayne (Kay) Otto, James (Patricia) Otto, Regina (Ralph) Gray.

Committal services with full military honors will be held on Saturday, July 27th at 11:00 a.m. at Oakwood Cemetery in Traverse City, Pastor Rick Rice officiating. A reception for all who wish to attend will be held at the VFW Hall in Traverse City immediately following his burial.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital, the Shriners, or Gold Star Families c/o Covell Funeral Home, 232 E. State St. Traverse City, MI. 49684