Charles Van "Charlie" De Kreeke

Charles "Charlie" Van De Kreeke passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. His humor, warmth, and gentle spirit remained strong until the very end when he went to his heavenly home and met his savior Jesus Christ.
Born in Sheboygan, WI on June 2, 1946, Charlie was the son of the late Edward and Dolores Van De Kreeke. He was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend. Charlie's big heart, quick wit, and easy laughter made everyone feel like family.
Charlie cherished time with his family and found joy and camaraderie on the golf course, where more than 35 years of play brought him deep friendships and countless stories. His favorite chapter of life was becoming "Grandpa." He was fully present with his grands - the silliest, most imaginative playmate, always ready for a laugh, an adventure, and in recent years the biggest cheerleader. Sundays were his favorite days, when he could lift his voice in song and worship alongside his church family. In recent years, he faced the challenges of Parkinson's disease with grace and humor, his optimism and love of life never wavering.
He is survived by and will be terribly missed by Nancy, his loving wife of 58 years and caregiver the last few years; his daughters Kristine (Jamie) and Kelly (Jason), his greatest joys and lights of his life, his grandchildren Hannah (Elliot) and Sam (Caden), Gabby and Owen, his sister Jarlath Piper, sisters-in-law Darlene Van De Kreeke and Susan Herber. He was an adored uncle to many nieces, nephews, grandnieces & grandnephews. He is further survived by his best friend (and often caregiver) John "JJ" Johnson, as well as countless cherished friends who stood by him through every chapter of his life. He was preceded in death by his brother Ron Van De Kreeke, his mother-in-law Vivian Herber Vander Weele, his in-laws Michael & Sharon Koss, Jerry Herber and Claude Piper, his nephew Greg Koss, his grandniece Leah Koss, and his best friend Ron "Rondo" Thiel.
Charlie's family extends heartfelt thanks to the physical therapists and Parkinson's group fitness members at Aurora who inspired him to work harder and be strong, Aurora caregivers, and friends who supported him through his final journey. Endless thanks to Megan, Tom & JJ for organizing the golf benefit and rallying his golf family. He was surrounded by immense love, laughter, and peace as he passed - a reflection of the life he lived and the love he gave so freely.
A memorial service to celebrate Charlie's life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m at Grace Bible Fellowship, 220 S Business Park Dr Suite A3, Oostburg, WI. Family & Friends may call at Grace Bible Fellowship on Friday, November 14 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 until the time of service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship will be created in his name.
Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family by visiting www.lakeshorefamilyfuneralhomes.com
The Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Wittkopp location, is assisting the family with arrangements.