Charles Edward "Chuck" Unruh III

Charles Edward Unruh, 75, of Conneaut, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 19, 2025, at UH Conneaut Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born December 12, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of Charles Edward Unruh, Jr. and Clara Emily (Preston) Unruh. A 1967 graduate of George Washington High School, Chuck proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was stationed aboard the USS Roosevelt, working on the flight deck, and continued his service with the Navy Reserves for an additional 10 years.

Chuck spent much of his career with Wilkie Buick, beginning as a mechanic and retiring as a body shop technician. On April 20, 1985, he married the love of his life, Renee (Luce) Unruh. The couple made their home in Philadelphia for 28 years before moving to Conneaut.

In retirement, Chuck found great fulfillment working with the American Legion Post #151, where he dedicated his time to maintenance and proudly served as a Legionnaire. He also volunteered in many ways, including helping at soup kitchens alongside his wife and kids, traveling to Alabama to assist with tornado cleanup, and even going to Ground Zero in New York just three days after the September 11th attacks. Helping others was at the core of who he was and the foundation of his faith.

Chuck enjoyed simple pleasures-watching TV, taking naps, cheering for his beloved Phillies and Eagles, and indulging in sweets. He had a passion for VW and Buick cars and a lifelong love of sports. Above all, his greatest joy came from spending time with his children and grandchildren and being there for his family in any way he could.

Chuck will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, proud veteran, and kind-hearted friend who lived a simple yet meaningful life.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Renee Unruh; children, Larena (Jose) Azogue, Charles E. Unruh IV, Scott Unruh, Nicole (Josh Kerner) Unruh, Matthew (Jes Zito) Unruh; grandchildren, Charles E. Unruh V, James (Rose) Unruh ,Danielle Gawron (Ian) , Phillip Tracey, Jasmine Unruh, Michael Rockafellow, Thomaz Unruh, Savanna Unruh, Rylee (Jacob Coy) Unruh, and Karmann Unruh; great-grandchildren, Layla Unruh and Dorian Gawron; siblings, Timothy "Mo" (Vikki) Unruh, Mark "Oss" (Mary) Unruh, Cheryl (Art) Carlson, and Lisa (Anthony "Kaz") Kazalouski; many aunts, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews; and many dear friends who will miss him dearly.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert "Bird" Unruh; and his dog, Rex.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 11, 2025 starting at 4:00PM at the American Legion Post #151, 272 Broad St., Conneaut, Ohio, 44030.

Online guestbook and condolences available at www.thompsonsmithnesbitt.com

The Thompson-Smith-Nesbitt Funeral Home, 345 Main ST., Conneaut is honored to assist the family.