Charles Justus Feighner, known to many as “Charlie” or “Chas,” age 62, of Chelsea, MI, passed away on December 29, 2024.
Charles was born on February 5, 1962, to parents Charles R. and Leona (Stahl) Feighner. He graduated from Riverside High School in Dearborn Heights, MI. Shortly afterwards, he went into the elevator trade, beginning with construction of the “new” Renaissance Center in Detroit. He earned licenses as both a journeyman elevator mechanic and elevator contractor and was a member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 36 for 40 years, prior to retirement.
Charlie appreciated and found peace in nature and the outdoors, thus greatly enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time at his cabin “up north.” Indoors, he found comfort and satisfaction from cooking, which included preparing his famous yellow cake (from the box) with chocolate frosting for family and friends on birthdays—made perhaps not from scratch, but with so much love every time. Though incredibly humble, his intelligence was unmistakable to those who knew him—which included making the New York Times crossword puzzle he loved doing every day look effortless. He adored his cat “Little” and his bird “Buddy.” He had the most amazing sense of humor, sometimes self-deprecating, often surreal —one of the many gifts he bestowed upon his children. Above all else in Charlie’s life was the love he had for his family.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Cathy; his dear children: Christopher, Alexander (Kaitlin), Amanda (Jeffrey) Haag, and Matthew Gillespie; his daughter-in-law, Jody Carpa Covey; his stepchildren: Sam, Connor, Erica, and Nicky; and his cherished grandchildren: Charlie, Kian, Christopher, and Leon.
He will also be greatly missed by his siblings: Laura Guysky, Rebecca, Erich (Ellen), Celeste (Jim) Kraft, Christian (Kim), and Joy (Andy) Thompson.
Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Kristie, his eldest son, Charles W. Feighner, his parents, Charles R. and Leona (Stahl) Feighner, and his brother, Kurt Feighner.
Thank you to everyone for your support and kindness during this difficult time. Charlie will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be Friday, January 3, 2025 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at Crossroads Community Church (Rosary at 7:00 p.m.) and Saturday, January 4, 2025 from 2:00-3:00 p.m.
A Celebration of Life will happen Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at the Crossroads Community Church, 28900 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon, MI 48178.
Expressions of sympathy may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital
