Charles J. Schaeffer

Charles J. Schaeffer, 63, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. He was born on Aug. 14, 1946 in Fargo, N.D., to Wilbur and Helen (Rudick) Schaeffer.

At an early age the family moved to West Glacier, and later settled in Martin City where Charles enjoyed his childhood growing up in the woods and mountains of Montana. He graduated from Columbia Falls High School in 1964. He served a brief period in the U.S. Marine Corps, he then returned to civilian life. Charles eventually moved to Salt Lake City where he spent many years working in a refinery and also did some ranching in the area as well. Charles was married briefly to Jean for several years before divorcing. He moved back to Kalispell in 2000, and operated a cleaning business. He also assisted at the senior citizens center before retiring, choosing to spend his remaining years enjoying time with family and friends.

Charles loved fishing, watching old westerns, listening to country music and doing the two-step with a pretty girl.

His unexpected passing leaves a huge void and sadness in many hearts. Charles' heart was as big as Montana. He loved people, and he loved life. Despite many physical challenges he had to overcome throughout his life, he enjoyed giving, far more than receiving, and would do anything for anybody in need. Charles always had a smile on his face and a can do attitude. His glass was always half full! For those who really knew Charles, he will be greatly missed and loved.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents Helen and Wilbur, brother Willie and sister Gloria. He is survived by brothers: Don Rickand and wife Vicky; Pat; sister Kathy Larson and husband Paul; aunt and uncle, Jean and Don Bromley and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Memorial services for Charles will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2010 at 7 p.m. at the Canyon Community Church in Coram. The family suggests any memorial donations be made to the local food bank.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Charles' family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and view Charles' tribute wall.