Charles Douglas Edwards

Born on January 25, 1942, in Hancock, Michigan to Adrian and Dorothy (nee Schnaufer). Charles was raised in Tamarack Mills, Michigan, and carried the proud spirit of his Yooper heritage with him throughout his life.

After graduating from Michigan Technological University in 1969, Charles worked for 38 years as a maintenance supervisor at Saginaw Malleable Iron, where he was known for his dedication, skill, and work ethic. But his life wasn’t confined to the factory floor. Charles was also a passionate outdoorsman with a love for downhill skiing, trout fishing on the Au Sable River, and his Harley Davidson motorcycles. For over 20 years, he shared his expertise and enthusiasm as a ski instructor at Apple Mountain, where countless people benefited from his patience and instruction. Whether skiing the slopes or riding his Harley, Charles embraced life with a sense of adventure and a deep love for the beauty of Michigan, especially his cherished Copper Country of which he could talk about for hours.

An active member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Charles served his faith community as both an usher and a deacon. His unwavering commitment to service was a testament to the strong principles he lived by ä kindness, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility to others.

Charles’ greatest pride and joy were his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Elizabeth (Betty); their three sons, Charles (Darla), Dean (Vicki), and David (Susan); his five grandchildren, Mathew (Kayla) and their children (Grace, Thatcher), Chloe (Greg) and their children (Cooper, Elle), Jacob (Ashley) and their children (Marcus, Sydney), Mackenzie (Hyder), and Adrienne. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Carol Pence and Joyce (Bruce) Wood, and his sister-in-law, Gail (Chuck) Rager as well as several nieces and nephews.

Charles was a man whose Yooper humor and devotion to family will be remembered by all who knew him. Whether it was sharing a laugh, lending a helping hand, or offering a word of wisdom, his presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His love for his family and his community, along with his quiet strength and compassion, will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

A funeral was held at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church on Friday, November 22 at 12 p.m. There will be a graveside service held in Lake Linden next summer. In lieu of flowers, due to allergies, the family asks that memorials be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.