Charles Thomas Schalk

Charles Thomas Schalk, lovingly known as Chuck or Charlie, was born on January 14, 1949, in Muskegon, Michigan. He passed away on January 3, 2026, at the age of 76, just days shy of his 77th birthday, after a long and courageous battle with multiple health conditions.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and June Schalk, and his brothers, James and Robert J. Schalk. He is survived by his sister, Kathy (Jack) Carlson. He grew up in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, where he formed lifelong roots and friendships.

Chuck is survived by the love of his life, Judith Anne (LaNore) Schalk. Together, they shared 56 blessed years of marriage, marked by devotion, faith, and family.

He was a devoted father to his daughter, Rebecca (Christopher) Lund, and his son, Jason (Aram) Schalk. He was a proud grandfather to Jacob (Meagan) Lund, Mackenzie Lund, Isaac, Malachi, Adelyn, Eden, Titus, and Zarah Schalk, and great-grandfather to Elijah and Carolyn. Chuck is also fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Chuck graduated from Muskegon Heights High School in 1967, where he played football. He then graduated from Muskegon Community College and later attended Ferris State University. Over the years, he worked in the maintenance department at a local foundry, later as a sales representative for industrial supply, and ended his working career in the maintenance department at Sanctuary of the Oaks, as well as doing delivery work at his brother's auto parts store.

Chuck was a quiet and sensitive man with a gentle sense of humor. He had a true gift for hospitality and service. Chuck and Judy's home-complete with a backyard pool-became a cherished gathering place for family celebrations and togetherness over many years.

A man of deep faith, Chuck believed in Jesus and lived out his faith daily. He was faithful to a daily prayer ministry for many years and often shared words of encouragement with others. Especially toward the end of his life, he would say with peace and assurance, "It's all good," reflecting his confidence that all was well with his soul.

Chuck loved being outdoors. He found joy in gardening, artistic landscaping, and even weeding. He also enjoyed customizing and painting cars and vans, expressing his creativity through hands-on work.

One of Chuck's lasting messages to those around him was a simple but powerful reminder: "Are you keeping your eye on Jesus?"-often pointing to a picture of Jesus he kept in his garage or gave to others, encouraging them to place their faith and all their cares in Him.

Chuck will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his quiet strength, faithful heart, and unwavering love for his family and his Lord.

A MEMORIAL SERVICE for Chuck will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, January 12, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, with Pastor Daniel Cook officiating. VISITATION with the family will be on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM, also at The Lee Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Chuck's memorial park bench would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be made via gofundme under the title "In Memory of Charles Schalk: Memorial Bench Fund."