Charles D. "Chuck" Funk

Charles "Chuck" D. Funk, age 75, of Fitchburg, MA., died peacefully at his home Sunday morning, September 7, beside his beloved wife, Emily Funk. Left to cherish his memories are his three children, Phineas Funk, Catherine Gabriel, and Patricia Powell, his grandchild, Alex Funk; one sister, Betsy Nelson of North Stonington, CT.; seven nieces; four nephews; and a host of other loving relatives and kind friends. His parents, Carroll and Martina (Van Gerve) Funk, and two brothers, Richard Funk of Cleveland, OH., and Thomas Funk of McClure, OH, preceded him in death.

Chuck was born December 28th, 1949, in San Francisco, CA and raised in Cleveland, OH., and graduated in 1968 from John Marshall High School. Following High school, he studied linguistics at MIT, where he met his beloved wife, Emily. He served 3 years active duty with the US army, including a station in Germany during the Vietnam War era. He was a stay-at-home father and a freelance language translator for most of his adult life.

He was an active member of his church, Leominster United Methodist Church, after longtime membership at Rollstone Congregational. His ministries included singing in the choir, small group bible study leader, part time lay preacher, and member at-large of the church council, among many others. Chuck was an avid reader, singer, and actor, who thoroughly enjoyed the many fun and loving times with his family and community. Chuck did much to create a home and sanctuary for his family and himself and took great pleasure in supporting friends who needed his help as they shared his life with him.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, September 17th, 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. at Leominster United Methodist Church and A 'Celebration of Life' service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, September 18th at Leominster United Methodist Church as well, 77 Hall St, Leominster. Pastor Michelle Ashley will officiate. Interment will be privately held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to one, or more, of the many charitable organizations that were close to his heart: Leominster United Methodist Church, Rollstone Congregational Church, Montachusett Chorale, American Cancer Society, and Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity. Consideration may also be given to another charity of the donor's choice.