CHARLES FREDERICK VOGT

Charles Frederick Vogt, 88, of Hillman, passed away Tuesday, April 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Charles (Charlie) was born on May 16, 1936, to the late Frederick and Sarah (Edgar) Vogt in a log cabin on Edgar farm in Royston. He grew up on the Vogt family farm which is where he learned the rewards and challenges of hard work. Sprinkled in with his youthful hard work was a bit of mischief…perhaps more than a bit! Both his hard work and mischief continued throughout his entire life.

Charlie met the love of his life, Shirley Himes, while cruising the streets of Hillman. He loved to joke that he rescued her from a stump in the “long swamp” which is an area between where he and she grew up. They were united in marriage on Jan. 10, 1959, and for 61 years they built a life full of love, laughter, and purpose, raising three children and eventually becoming proud grandparents to five. Shirley preceded him in death on Nov. 15, 2020.

Charlie worked tirelessly to provide for his family. His work even included a stint sailing the Great Lakes and retired from the Montmorency County Road Commission on May 31, 2001. He loved working there and the comradery that he shared with his co-workers. He enjoyed attending their annual Christmas party and was able to do so again this past December.

He and Shirley’s travels after retirement took them from coast to coast as well as a couple of international travels. They especially loved traveling to spend time with their children and grandchildren. The memories they’ve left us with will forever be held close to our hearts.

Charlie had a contagious laugh that will be remembered by all who knew him. He also had a few quirks that we teased him about, such as that ‘intense need’ to top the gas off in the car. Didn’t matter if the car was down two gallons…it was gonna get topped off. His passions included gardening, traveling, listening to polka music, and playing cards.

Charlie now lives on in the hearts of his family. Surviving are his three children, Tamyra (Cecil) Smith, DeLynn Yedinak, Scott (Meaghan) Vogt; four grandchildren, Darrien Smith, Michael Yedinak, Makenzie (Josh) Olrich, Rachel Vogt; three siblings Lillie Elowski, Tillie Vogt, Bill (Barbara) Vogt; and special friend Beth Noffze.

Charlie was preceded in death by the love of his life Shirley, his grandson Devin Vogt, and sister Donna Klein.

Charlie’s family would like to extend their gratitude to family and friends who have supported him since Shirley’s passing, with a very special thanks going to Uncle Bill and Aunt Barb, Larry and Nancy Strohschein, and Beth Noffze. Your unwavering support and friendship to him will never be forgotten.

Visitation will take place Tuesday at St. John Lutheran Church – Royston from 2 to 7 p.m. and continue there Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Joshua Schultz officiating.

Arrangements have been handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.

Memorials: St. John Lutheran Church – Royston