Stroo Funeral Home - Grand Rapids, MI

BirrChuck 122

Service Information

Charles "Chuck" Birr

Visitation: Saturday, November 18, from 10 - 11 am at St. Mark Lutheran Church followed by the service at 11 am
Service: 11 am Saturday, November 18, at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 1934 52nd St. SE, Kentwood, MI
Memorials: Feeding America West Michigan, 864 W River Center Dr NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321

or Habitat for Humanity, 5701 Division Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49548

CHARLES BIRR

Charles “Chuck” Birr passed away peacefully at age 80, on Friday, November 3, 2023, at his home. He was born to Kenneth and Marie (Dolce) Birr in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on September 23, 1943 during WWII while his father was serving in the Army Air Force in England and France.

Chuck was a 1961 graduate of Catholic Central High School. He served in the Air Force (1961-1966) as a cryptographic intelligence analyst and in the military police. He was stationed on the islands of Crete, Greece and Okinawa, Japan. Upon discharge, Chuck designed and built his first home in Grand Rapids. He had two lovely daughters, Lisa and Michelle, during his first marriage. He then attended Grand Rapids Junior College, obtaining an Associate degree. His education and career interests led him to positions in engineering design, construction and real estate development companies in Grand Rapids, Boston and Oregon. Upon returning to Grand Rapids from Boston, he took a position with the City of Grand Rapids Engineering. It was during this period that he met his future wife, Ann, at City Hall. They were married in 1977 and moved to Hood River, Oregon, the following year for Chuck’s position with an engineering/project management firm. During this time, he and Ann were blessed with their son, David. He earned his Bachelor of Science at Linfield College in Oregon while working full time. They returned to Michigan where he worked in economic development in Grand Rapids and Allegan County. He greatly enjoyed his last 12 years working in security at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

He was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth & Marie Birr. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Ann, three children: Lisa (Rodney), Michelle (Larry) and David (Mary); four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; and sibling: Mary Kay (John).

Chuck was well known for savoring a good meal and a dark beer. He was a wonderful storyteller and had a gift for making everyone he met feel valued and appreciated. We will always cherish his unwavering faith, wit, kindness and compassion.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at St. Mark Lutheran Church on 1934 52^nd Street SE, Kentwood at 11 am. The family will greet family and friends at 10 am -11 am in the church narthex prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to Feeding America West Michigan or Habitat for Humanity.

STROO FUNERAL HOME

1095 68TH ST SE

GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49508

Comments

# Janine Maly 2023-11-08 18:18

Chuck was a true gentleman and blessing to everyone in his life. He loved his family above all and expressed his faith in every facet of his interactions with those of us lucky enough to call him friend. Kindness and humor were his touchpoints, and his ready smile always put us at ease. My husband and he used to walk the neighborhood, and often talked and shared their life journey, laughing often. I know my husband joyously greeted Chuck in the hereafter with a huge hug.
You were a very good man Chuck, and will be missed greatly by all of us who loved you. Thank you for the gift of you.

# Jody Naimo 2023-11-08 18:08

My condolences, thoughts and prayers to Chuck's family. I worked at the GRR Airport, where I was privileged to drive through Gate 3, where Chuck was stationed. We had so many wonderful conversations of life, family and of course, FOOD. Chuck was always doing one of two things, smiling or laughing. His storytelling was captivating, humorous and full of life. I looked forward each day to pass through Chucks gate. He never had a bad word about anyone and spoke so beautifully about his wife and kids. Chuck, thanks for the friendship and stories and the love of food. Until we meet again, this time, at the Golden Gates.

# Lisa Carr 2023-11-08 16:50

Chuck was such a wonderful man. I had the privilege of working with him at at the airport, and I used the gate he was stationed at most days so we chatted often. I joked with him that he was going to make me late for my meetings! He did like to tell stories and there was always a new one. He always spoke so fondly of his wife, and others at the airport. He just loved life and that was really a blessing to anyone he came in contact with. Everyone working during his time here knew Chuck and loved him. Sending his family & friends my condolences - thank you for sharing him with us.

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