Charles Major

1939 - 2024

Charles "Chuck" H. Major, age 84, of Eau Claire, WI passed away at home, surrounded by his family on Friday, February 23 after a recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Chuck was born on December 14, 1939, in La Crosse, WI to Clarence and Helen (Fredlund) Major.

Chuck attended high school at St. Thomas Aquinas in La Crosse, WI. He later attended Mount Saint Bernard Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa, where he received a master's degree in theology. In 1964, he was ordained as a Catholic priest. He served parishes in Wisconsin and taught at McDonell High School in Chippewa Falls, WI. He was then called in a different direction and married the love of his life, Mary Lou (Light), on May 28, 1976, in Wausau, WI. They started their life together in Eau Claire, WI.

Chuck loved his 41 years at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. He began his career as a hall director in 1974 and retired as the Director of Housing in 2015.

Chuck proudly served his country. His military career began in 1969 as Chaplain with the 213th Supply and Service Battalion. In 1990, he led the 213th as Commander during the first Gulf War with Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Chuck retired at the rank of Colonel after 33 years of service in the Army Reserves.

His military service brought him to various places including Alaska, Saudi Arabia, Honduras, and South Korea. Never one to sit idle, he continued his love of travel and became a tour guide with holiday vacations for 20 plus years. He led folks to places all over the world including Alaska, Hawaii, Chile, Kenya, and Ireland.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Mary Lou; children, Tammy (Todd) Green, Christopher (Lydia) Major, and Michael (Chloe) Major; grandchildren, Brittany (Max) Hince, Anika Major and Walter and Margaret Major; siblings, Larry (Sally) Major and Mary (Wayne) McDonald, and many nieces and nephews.

Chuck is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Kay Rairigh. He leaves behind a legacy of service and love.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Moments Hospice for the compassion and loving care they provided Chuck during his final walk of life.

Mass of Christian burial will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 5 at Immaculate Conception, 1712 Highland Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701 with Father Francis Thadathil officiating.

Visitation will take place that day at the church from 9:30 am until the time of service. Burial with military honors will take place in the Calvary Cemetery in Eau Claire immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Friends and family may offer condolences online at hulkefamilyfh.com. Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.