Charles "Chuck" G Shumaker

Charles “Chuck” G. Shumaker, longtime Bellaire Fire Chief, passed away at home, Monday, November 17, 2025. He was a dedicated husband, father, friend, and humble hero to many.

Chuck was born August 12, 1956 in Bellaire, the son of Arthur and Auda (Handy) Shumaker. He was a graduate of Bellaire High School and received his Associates Degree in Automotive Technologies from NMC. He worked at the Les Hatch car dealership in Traverse City after college for several years, and did HVAC work too. He made his career at Lamina Bronze in Bellaire, retiring after more than 40 years of being a committed, loyal employee.

In 1974 Chuck began another lifetime career with the Bellaire District Fire Department. He was a leader with his co-workers and the Chief for many years. He had a passion for the job and a strong work ethic to help those in need and to keep the community safe.

Chuck had many hobbies. He enjoyed welding and fabrication work, working on and riding his side by sides and off roading with them. He enjoyed the great outdoors as much as possible, hunting, fishing, ice fishing for Walleye, grouse and partridge hunting with his hunting dogs. He enjoyed spending summer and fall days up at his cottage on Trout Lake, and traveling to the U.P. Chuck was involved in several Jeep Clubs and owned many over the years, as well as other classic cars.

On October 9, 1978, in Bellaire, he married Gayle Monroe who preceded him in death in May. He was also preceded by his parents, brother Robert Shumaker, sisters Doris Goodrich and Maxine Harlan.

Surviving are his sons Alan (Mindy) Shumaker of Bellaire, Eric (Theresa) Shumaker of Arlington, TN, grandchildren Noah (Taylor) Shumaker, Nikolas Shumaker, Jacob Shumaker, Brody Shumaker, sisters Marilyn May, Bev (Bill) McLellan, Shirley Sawyer, and several nieces and nephews.

No services are planned at this time.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.