April 25, 1932 - January 23, 2015
Charles Marcus “Chuck” Karels age 82 of Richfield was ushered from the loving arms of his family into the loving embrace of God on January 23, 2015 after a 65 year epic battle against polio. Chuck was born April 25, 1932 in western MN. He loved being outdoors and planned to be a farmer, but at age 16, he contracted polio and experienced significant muscle damage. With rehabilitation, faith and a strong will, he learned to walk and enjoyed an active life. He faced every new challenge with optimism, grace and inventiveness. Chuck is lovingly missed by his beloved wife, Patricia, children, Mike (Teri), Colleen (Stuart), Mary Beth (Brad), Katie and Eugene (Ann); 16 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; siblings, Sr. Adeline Karels, Sr. Marmion Karels and Richard Karels. He is preceded in death by parents, Marcus and Katherine and brother, Eugene.
Memorials may be directed to St. Richard's Catholic Church
Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday, January 29, 2015
11:00 AM
St. Richard’s Catholic Church
7540 Penn Ave. S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Visitation
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
6-8 PM
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Ave. S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Dear Charles’ Family, I’m sending my sympathy and love to all Charles’ big family still here on earth. I never really knew him, (so many cousins) but had always heard remarkable things about him. Now, he gets his reward. God bless you all. Aloha from Ginger(Val & Lola’s) and my family: Jessie, Daryl, Jameson McCormick and Jason Cannata
Absolutely one of the greatest guys that I had a privilege to work with at NALAC. I have fond memories of fishing at the NALAC’s Green Lake get away as well as using his great intellectual insights in marketing our products. I know he earned a special place in heaven.
I am sorry to hear of Chuck’s death. My brother Harvey told me about it recently. My prayers and sympathy are with the family. I am his first cousin.