Charles Tolar

Charles Louis Tolar, or "Chuck" as he was cheerfully known to everyone who had the joy of crossing his path, took his final, well-aimed swing at life's 18th hole on July 21, 2024, in the same city where his story began, Grand Rapids, MI.

Born on July 17, 1951, Chuck's 73 years on this earthly course were marked by laughter, adventure, and an unwavering faith that could move more than just sand traps. Chuck's life was a testament to love, married to his high school sweetheart, Donna, for a half-century, and together they cultivated a family that thrived on humor and joy. Their daughters, Cherie Stoken (partner in crime, Paul Anderson), Niki Schoenborn, and Liz David (with her sidekick, Dustin David) brought forth grandkids who inherited his playful spirit: Megan & Brendan Stoken, Hudson & Jax Schoenborn, and Amelia, Silas & Isiah David. Chuck's siblings, Ken, Rose, Dave, Matt, and a whole clubhouse of nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws, completed his cheering squad. A man of simple pleasures and grand adventures, Chuck's career was as varied as his hobbies, but it was on the greens where he truly found his calling. His bucket list - playing golf with Donna in all 50 states - was not merely completed but done with a style that would make the pros envious. Alaska, with its majestic beauty, held a special place in his heart and scorecard. Not one to brag, but if you asked him about his hole-in-one at the Rogue River Golf Course, he'd tell you it was just "a lucky shot," followed by a wink and a nudge. When he wasn't perfecting his swing, Chuck could be found in a bowling alley knocking down pins like they were comedic punchlines, or at the table playing games where the stakes were high – at least as high as the laughter that surrounded them. His legendary golf cart tours were both a cherished tradition and a masterclass in storytelling, as friends and family would gather around to be regaled with tales that were equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. Describing Chuck as funny, adventurous, and faith-filled barely scratches the surface. He had a joke for every occasion and treated life as the greatest adventure of all, one he lived with a heart full of faith. His humor was as infectious as it was respectful, never missing an opportunity to crack a smile or lift spirits. An impromptu comedian, whether he was recounting his golf exploits or just making small talk, Chuck was the guy who could make you laugh until it hurt and then tell you a story that would touch your heart just moments later.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Chuck, we won’t say he's "gone," but rather that he's teed off on that celestial fairway, no doubt charming the angels with his one-liners and maybe, just maybe, aiming for that heavenly hole-in-one. Chuck’s life was a beautiful round, full of birdies, a few bogeys, and plenty of mulligans. His memory will continue to inspire chuckles and courage in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to be part of his gallery. So, here's to Charles Louis "Chuck" Tolar – a man who knew that the best things in life aren't things at all, but the moments spent in joyous camaraderie and the embrace of a family who adored him. May we all carry forward a slice of his zest for life and a dash of his humor, remembering that every day is a chance to make someone laugh, to take on an adventure, and to live a life as full and splendid as his. Chuck, you've made it to the 19th hole, and we raise our glasses to you.

Please join us for Chuck’s celebration of life at the Moose Lodge in Sparta on Sunday, August 11th, from 2 - 4pm.