Charles Frey "Chuck" Scholer

Charles F. Scholer, 91, of West Lafayette, IN passed away peacefully on Nov. 6, 2025.

The youngest of three children, Charles was born and raised in Manhattan, KS. He attended Kansas State University, earning a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. While at KSU he met his wife Sue, and the two married in 1957. After serving in the Air Force, they relocated to West Lafayette, IN.

Charles received both master's and PhD degrees at Purdue University and then began a forty-year career as a professor of Civil Engineering at Purdue. His dedication to teaching and mentoring left an enduring impact on numerous students and colleagues. He was active in several professional organizations including American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), American Concrete Institute (ACI), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and Purdue's Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP). In 2002, he was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by the Governor of Indiana.

He was a devoted family man and enjoyed traveling and outdoor activities with his family. In later years, he found joy and peace in the simple beauty of his backyard, tending to his flowers and rose bushes, and watching the clouds, birds and squirrels. He also enjoyed his longtime friendships at CESEC, Lion's Club and Covenant Church.

Charles is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Sue Scholer; their children Elizabeth Scholer, Charles Scholer (Lisa) and Virginia McCal (Kevin); grandchildren Alexander (Meghan), Samuel (Jess), Jessica (Jared), Rachel (Manuel), Riley, Kaleb (Marisa), Abigail (Grant), Blake and Natalie, and four great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertha Marie Scholer and Charles Henry Scholer, and his siblings Ruth Liebengood and John Scholer.

Chuck lived his life with a consistent good nature and an unswerving love of his family. He was an engaging conversationalist and storyteller, a beloved husband, father, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather. His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of those that love him.

Friends are invited to a casual gathering to celebrate Chuck's life on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Westminster Village (2741 N. Salisbury Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906) between 1:00-3:00 PM. Interment service will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Lions Club of Lafayette, IN (PO Box 6123, Lafayette, IN 47902), Westminster Village Foundation, Inc. (2741 N. Salisbury Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906) or a charity of your choice.