Charles L. Van Sickle

Charles (Charlie) Lynn Van Sickle passed away Friday, Sept. 9, 2016, in Otsego Memorial Hospital, Gaylord, Mich.

Charlie was born Aug. 7, 1949, in Adrian, Mich., to Stanton and Helen (Borrmann) Van Sickle. He attended Onsted Community Schools, graduating in 1967. He was drafted into the U.S. Army April 30, 1969, and served in Germany as a border guard. After his discharge he spent a few years in Florida and re-enlisted in 1977. He was sent to Fort Greely, Alaska, in March 1978. On Dec 28, 1978, he married his wife of 36 years, JoAnne. They were blessed with two wonderful children, Amanda Mae April 20, 1981, and Shane Michael Oct. 2, 1984. The family moved to Connecticut for a few years and then moved back to Onsted where he worked as a truck driver for Eden Foods and Groeb Farms. He also played drums for the 5-Star Country Band.

Charlie enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and especially music. After retiring to Lovells, Mich., he played with a band in Lewiston. The past few years he could often be found at the Riverside in Lovells playing his guitar and telling entertaining stories. Charlie and JoAnne separated in 2014 but remained close friends.

Charlie is survived by his children and grandchildren, Amanda Van Sickle and her son Finn of Berryville, Ark., Shane (Amber) Van Sickle and their daughters Nola and Aubrey of Litchfield, Mich.; two brothers, Dennis (Patricia) Van Sickle of Onsted and Terry Van Sickle of Camden, Mich.; two sisters, Carolyn (Jeffrey) Mead of Elmira, Mich., and Kay Van Sickle of Mancelona, Mich.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service will be held Oct. 14, 2016 at 1 p.m., Cambridge Township Cemetery, Onsted, Mich., followed by a celebration of life at the Onsted American Legion. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family would be appreciated.

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