Charles J. Kuenster

Charles J. “Charlie” Kuenster, age 84, of Lancaster, passed away at home with his family by his side on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. He was born on October 4, 1940, in Oak Park, IL, the son of Karl and Caroline (Hora) Kuenster. In 1952, the family relocated to Lancaster from River Grove, IL. Charlie joined his father in the family business, Kuenster Aluminum, in 1953. On January 11, 1964, he was united in marriage to Judy Moore at St. Clement Catholic Church. They were blessed with six children. Charlie was a man of deep faith and fierce passion; he lived life with the throttle wide open. A lifelong Catholic, he was a devoted member of St. Clement Catholic Church, where he led the rosary and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. His faith was the cornerstone of his life — a quiet strength that guided his actions, shaped his values, and inspired those around him. Charlie was most at home at the drag strip. From a young age, he was captivated by the roar of engines and the thrill of speed. He spent countless weekends racing, tuning engines, and sharing stories with fellow enthusiasts. He owned several vintage cars and race cars, but his favorite race car was his 1959 Chevy Impala. One of his proudest moments was winning the 59th World Series of Drag Racing in Cordova, IL in 2012. Charlie also served his country in the United States Navy and Army. His life was a beautiful blend of devotion and drive, and his memory will forever race in our hearts.

Charlie was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Judy; their children: Stephan, Daniel, Teresa (John) Kruser, Anita Schmitz, Jacob and Jerred; 13 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren and one on the way; sister, Barbara (Larry) Lea; brothers-in-law, Joe Moore and Jim (Jean) Huinker; sister-in-law, Linda Wilson.

In addition to his parents, Charlies was preceded in death by his siblings: Karol Huinker, Josie (Dale) Burdick, and many members of the Moore family.

A Mass of Christian Burial with military honors will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Lancaster with Father Mark Miller officiating. Family burial will be held at a later date. Family and friends may visit on Friday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church, where an 8:45 a.m. parish rosary will be prayed. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Lancaster is entrusted with his care.