WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Charles A. Berry, 86, of Marshall, died on Monday, Sept. 21, 2009, at Sturgis Hospital.
Mr. Berry was born on March 6, 1923, in Shamokin, Pa., to Charles G. and Della (Lahr) Berry. He served in the US Army during World War II, and was honorability discharged in 1943.
On March 7, 1947, he married Iona Marie Fox. She preceded him in death on Jan. 3, 1984.
Mr. Berry worked as a machine operator for the Eaton Corporation for 30 years. He retired Aug. 1, 1981. Mr. Berry was an avid harness racer, and enjoyed racing his horses at all the local tracks throughout Michigan and Indiana. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and football. Mr. Berry enjoyed spending time with his friends at the local coffee stops, but he especially enjoyed spending time with his family.
He is survived by his children, June (Rick) Wisel of White Pigeon, Charles H. (Judy) Berry of Battle Creek, Dennis Berry of Kalamazoo, and Patricia (Larry) Thorp of Ionia. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and five siblings.
Visitation will take place at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home and Cremation Services from 2-8 p.m. today with family present to greet friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Funeral services celebrating his life will take place at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home with Pastor Dwight Gosser officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Oakridge Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com
