Charles Lauersdorf

Charles Lauersdorf Kingsford - Charles Herbert Lauersdorf, 63, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Tuesday, April 18, 2006, at Dickinson County Memorial Hospital in Iron Mountain after a courageous battle with Lou Gehrig's disease. He was born on May 5, 1942, in Kingsford, the son of the late Herbert and Mary (Calvesio) Lauersdorf. Charles graduated from Kingsford High School in 1960. On Sept. 30, 1961, he married Mary Joanne Marchand at the old Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. He worked at Grede Foundries for 40 years until his retirement in May 2004. Chuck was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, where he was the pastor's helper at the Saturday night services. He was well-known for his keen sense of humor. He wrote beautiful poetry for many of his friends for their anniversaries, birthdays, and when they were ill. He had some of his poems published in hard covered books, and he won the editor's choice award for many of these poems. He also had a short story called "Remember Me," that was published in a magazine called "Above the Bridge." He was also the best gardener in the neighborhood. His garden was his pride and joy, and his tomatoes were the best. He loved his family and the family get-togethers. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Charles is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Mary; a daughter, Lori (Kenneth) Kiltinen of Kingsford; two sons, Charles (Diane) Lauersdorf of Iron Mountain and Gary (Shari Bal) of Norway; five grandchildren, Jesse, Lacey, Mike, Quinn, and Chris; two great-grandchildren Kayla and Devin; two special aunts, Hazel Stachowicz of Kingsford and Viola Hirvo of Spring Hill, Fla.; cousins in the surrounding area; a brother-in-law, Ray Marchand; a sister-in-law, Jeanette Marchand; and a nephew, Mike Marchand . He was preceded in death by a son, Carl in 1990. Chuck will be sadly missed by all who loved him. Visitation will be held on Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at the church. Pastor Chad Ott will officiate. Burial will be in Cemetery Park. Condolences may be expressed to the family of Charles H. Lauersdorf online at www.tondinfuneralhome.com. The Tondin-Ross & Freeman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Charles Lauersdorf

May 5, 1942 - April 18, 2006