Charles Joseph Cihak

Charles J. Cihak Sr., 77, of Muskegon, Michigan, died peacefully on February 16, 2026, with his wife and children by his side after a short and courageous battle with cancer. During his final days, an outpouring of close friends and family gathered around Charlie, and their presence brought him unimaginable joy.

Charlie was born on April 25, 1948, to Charles W. and Bernadine Cihak in Muskegon, Michigan. After graduating high school from Muskegon Catholic Central in 1966, Charlie went on to receive a bachelor's degree from Michigan State University. This is where his lifelong love of the Spartans began (Go Green!). Following college, Charlie returned to Muskegon to work alongside his father at the family business, Radium Photo. He later purchased the company and remained dedicated to it until his passing. Proud to carry on his family's legacy, he devoted himself to the business and took great satisfaction in helping it continue to grow and serve the community for more than 117 years.

On April 22, 1977, Charlie married Linda Bowman, and together they spent nearly 49 years building a home, raising their children, and later welcoming grandchildren who brought them great pride and joy. Charlie's competitive spirit was evident in everything he did. He played softball, bowled every week, golfed with his wife, coached his children's teams, and cheered enthusiastically for his grandkids. He was also a devoted Spartan's fan, never missing a chance to root for the team he loved. He was proud to pass on his favorite mantra to his kids and grandkids – to always "kick ass and take names." Paradise to Charlie, was his cabin in Amasa, Michigan, built by his grandfather. He loved spending as much time as he could there with his cabin buddies, Charlie Jr., his grandkids, his nephews, and many of their friends.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Randy, and his daughter-in-law, Amanda Cihak. He is survived by his wife, Linda Bowman Cihak; his sisters Karen (Tom) Blais, Barb (George) Keefe, Vicky (Ron) Gallas; his brother, Mike Cihak; his four children, Charles J. Cihak Jr., MacKenzie (Mike) Richardson, Leslie Cihak, Whitney (Matthew) Boyle; and his six grandchildren, Avery, Kayla, Lucas, Bayler, Cameron, and Porter.

VISITATION will be Friday, February 20, 2026, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services and Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 6291 Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI. 49444. MEMORIAL SERVICE will be Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 3:00 PM at The Lee Chapel. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to help Noah Project Muskegon or the Boys and Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore. Arrangements through The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services. Please consider signing the family's online guestbook and share memories at https://sytsemafh.com