Charles Arthur Reisner

Charles Arthur Reisner died in his home in Paw Paw, Michigan on September 10, 2023.

Born in Washington, D.C. on November 26, 1946, and adopted by Marion and Arthur Reisner, “Chuck” would become a standout basketball player at Dearborn High School. He would go on to graduate with distinction from Michigan State University. Prior to his career in insurance he worked as a secondary-school history teacher.

While teaching outside of Tulsa, he married. A child of adoption himself, Chuck immediately took to the task of raising his wife’s two young boys as his own. His third son, and a daughter would follow. A father of four, who would not entertain or tolerate any distinction between the boys he took in as a young man and the children born to him later, he became the glue that continues to bind a very unconventional but beautiful family.

He is loved and survived by his children Gerry, Greg (Andrea), Brian (Ethni), and Sarah. Also by his granddaughters Maleah, Ella, Lila, and Arden. His sister Carol, her husband Bill, their children and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Arthur, and son-in-law Gregory Ferris.
A legendary storyteller, Chuck would spend his years in Paw Paw waxing poetic about his legendary trips to Mexico with friends, his fishing excursions in search of “The Big Kahuna”, and the many childhood adventures he shared with his “baby sister”, Carol. Chuck was a man who would speak his mind and argue an opinion with conviction, particularly in the realm of social and political issues, but he would never let a disagreement get in the way of a good time, let alone a good friendship. He was known in these parts as a steadfast pal, a genuine soul, the life of any party, and an above-average dance partner. To those closest to him he was much more. He was a quiet but constant source of acceptance, laughter, kindness, and love. In his own words, “everyone has a story to tell, and you can learn from it”.

Chuck was honored in a very small, private service, with his four children and his sister in attendance. He would have wanted nothing more. In his memory, siblings and cousins, aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces came together to celebrate in mourning and laughter. It was a fitting end to a life well-lived. He will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Should anyone wish to honor his memory, a kind word to a stranger, a silly joke, or a small donation to any charitable cause would be more than sufficient.