Charles Buerger

Lifelong resident and longtime Cheboygan businessman, Charles J. Buerger entered eternal life on August 22, 2016.

He joined his Lord and Savior and his earthly love, M. June Littlefield, who preceded him in death in September 2001.  Born November 14, 1928 to Selina M. Gouin and Charles V. Buerger, Charles attended catholic elementary school and graduated from Cheboygan High School.  As a young man he learned the dry-cleaning business and took his "trade" to Alaska for a short while before returning to Cheboygan to work in the "filling station" business pumping gas at the local Sinclair station.  He then joined Northwood Oil Company and eventually purchased it with partner Jim Taylor from previous owner Joseph Yankoviak.  Charles (Chuck) retired at 57 years old upon the sale of Northwood Oil to Alpena Oil Co.  After that he concentrated on his second careers-hunting and fishing. Chuck was an accomplished carpenter and in his early married life used his skills to supplement his income and enhance his family home.  After retirement, he built the log cabin lodge for his old friend, Walt Romanik, at Renegade Ranch. 

Besides hunting and fishing, Chuck enjoyed water and snow skiing - happy to still be on the slopes after turning 70 years old when he could ski free!  He was always ready for a rousing game of Hearts with the family. His children will remember him for his support and encouragement for education and the many hours spent on Mullet Lake boating, skiing and camping.  They will most remember his love and devotion for their mother, June.  

Charles was a member of St. Mary/St. Charles Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and a past member of Cheboygan Zoning Board of Appeals and the Sport Fishing Association’s stocking of fish in Lake Huron from the Cheboygan Harbor. He also participated in construction of the playground at Gordon Turner Park/City Beach.  

Survivors include children Nan (Timothy) Maczka, Jan Fusina, Steven (Debra) Buerger and Cynthia (Robert) Taylor. His grandchildren include Matthew (Meredith) Maczka, Gregory (Stephanie) Maczka, Stephanie (Jay) Walter, Vincent Fusina (Tammy Richard), Lesley (Jay) Dubois, Heather (Nick) De La Luz, Erin Buerger, Andrew Buerger, Anthony Taylor, and Kristin Taylor.  He also has nine great-grandchildren: Charlie, Ben, Will, and Theo Maczka; Penelope Maczka; Wes and June Walter; Ella Fusina; and Emmett Dubois.  His only sibling, Frances Buerger of Cheboygan and niece Virginia Mazelin of San Antonio, TX also survive. 

The family would like to thank the compassionate staff at The Brook and at Hancock Haven as well as his home caretakers prior to him entering assisted living. Much appreciation also goes to Hospice of the Straits during his final weeks. 

Memorials may be made to the local Salvation Army and St. Mary/St. Charles Elevator Fund c/o Nordman-Christian Funeral Home, 302 S. Huron Cheboygan, MI  49721.  

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and a funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Mary/St. Charles Parish, 120 N. "D" St., Cheboygan on September 24th, at 11:00 am, with a one hour visitation at the church prior to mass and a funeral luncheon immediately following. Burial concludes the celebration at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Online condolences may be made at www.stonefuneralhomeinc.com.

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