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Chari Binstadt Obituary
Chari grew up in Kenilworth, IL, and graduated from New Trier High School. She was a cum laude graduate of Miami University (Ohio) where she met her husband, David H. Binstadt. She was a member of Mortar Board, Delta Gamma and Phi Beta Kappa, where she held various leadership positions.
Before retiring to raise her three children, Chari was a junior high school math teacher. She was an avid volunteer, not only in her children's activities, but also in the city of Springfield, IL, at the Frank Lloyd Wright Dana-Thomas House. She always had an interest in art and design due to her father's influence in the Chicago architectural scene.
Preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Dr. David Binstadt, parents, Lloyd Morgan and Winogene Yost, her sister, Karyl Thorsen (Robert) and her brother, Owen Yost (Nancy).
She is survived by her son, Dr. Bryce Binstadt (Emily) of Stillwater, MN, daughter, Melanie Fitzgerald (Mike) of Indianapolis, IN, and son, Brady Binstadt of Corte Madera, CA, and seven grandchildren: Kensington & Annika Binstadt; Eleanor, Henry & Audrey Fitzgerald; Oliver and Zola Binstadt.
She is also survived by a sister Elyn Mulder (Douglas, deceased 2018) of Dallas, TX as well as several nieces and nephews.
Chari and her family enjoyed many cherished times in northern Minnesota and at their home on Glen Lake, Michigan. She was the author of a children's book, Up North in Michigan. Her interests included gardening, reading, visiting museums, traveling and spending as much time as possible with family. She was inquisitive, kind and compassionate - and her radiant smile lit up a room. Chari was a wonderful friend to many and a devoted mother and grandmother.
A celebration of Chari's life will be held in northern Michigan, Summer 2024. In lieu of flowers, please consider planting wildflowers in Chari's memory. Donations in Chari's memory may be made to The Leelanau Conservancy in Michigan or to Rock Steady Boxing in Indianapolis.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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