Charlie Stanski

Charlie Stanski, gifted athlete, family man and kind soul, peacefully passed away on June 19, 2020 with Carole, his wife of 39 years, by his side. Charlie was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on April 2, 1925. He was inducted into the Indiana Hall of Fame in 2011 as the leader of the 1942-1943 basketball State Championship for Fort Wayne Central High School. Charlie also gained recognition as a Hall of Fame athlete in football and basketball at Kalamazoo College, graduating with a B.A. in 1950. Prior to attending college, Charlie joined the United States Army Air Force, and was stationed stateside and on Guam. He was a Pacific All-Star in basketball during his two and a half years of service. Charlie was known throughout the Kalamazoo area and beloved by all. He cherished his many friendships and enjoyed his long-term career as a personnel director at Allied Paper and First of America, but his greatest love was for family. He and Carole adored and spoiled their 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Charlie and Carole spent countless hours bowling and playing golf together. He was a strategic Euchre player and kept Carole on her toes during many a competitive game! Known for his easy smile and affection for people, Charlie’s quiet intelligence and love of humor were evident by the sparkle in his eyes. He will be forever remembered and greatly missed by all who knew him. Charlie was preceded in death by his son Mark, of Dunedin, Florida and his six siblings. He is survived by wife Carole, and children; Laura Stevens of Fort Collins, Colorado, David (Mona) Stanski of Kentwood, Michigan, Mary Kay Morgan of Tampa, Florida, Lynne Lion of Dunedin, Florida and Kristine Stanski of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and stepchildren; Mike Monroe of Three Rivers, Michigan and Jayne Monroe of Phoenix, Arizona. Memorial donations may be made in Charlie’s name to St. Martin of Tours Church, 2010 Nichols Rd., Kalamazoo MI, 49004. Arrangements were made by Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Ln., Portage, MI 49002. For information regarding a future service, please consult the Kalamazoo Gazette, or visit www.avinkcremation.com