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.