Charles L. Ely

He was born November 8, 1937, in Turon, Kansas, a son of the late Earl S. and Lottie M. (Wilson) Ely. He was raised there and was a 1955 graduate of Turon High School.

Charles proudly served in the US Air Force for 10 years as an air traffic controller and was a Vietnam veteran.

On August 12, 1960 he married Sharon Tourville in Munising.

Following his time in the service, Charles spent the next 27 years in a variety of careers that included owning Ely’s Standard Service, working at the local mines, diesel mechanic for Catepillar and finishing his career installing back up power for Reliance Telecom Services. It could be said that he was a “Jack of all trades and master of none”.

Charles was a member of American Legion Post 44. His interests included going to the casino, his beloved dogs, Chi-Chi and Sandy, visiting with his family and helping them with any projects.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sharon Ely of Marquette; sons, Charles “Chuckie” (Gail) Ely of Kansas; Brian (Heidi Ross) Ely of Marquette and Scott (Lisa) Ely of Marquette; grandchildren, Trey (Brianna) Ely of KS, Amanda (Skylar) Hilzer of KS, Courtney (Polo) Velasquez of Gwinn, Ryan (Sydney) Ely of Marquette, Destiny (Dylan) Bullard of Marquette, Jessica Ely of Marquette, Rachel (Austyn) Ely of Marquette, Cole Ely of Marquette; great-grandchildren, Brody Ely, Caden Hilzer and Dawson Ely, all of KS; siblings, Earl (Carolyn) Ely of KS and Betty (Don) Cooper; brother & sister-in-law, Jerry & Gail Albright of Marquette.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Stanley Ely.

Honoring Charles request, a private family celebration of his life will be held.

Memorial contributions in Charles name may be directed to Michigan Veterans Homes D.J. Jacobetti or UPAWS.

Canale-Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories may be shared at canalefuneral.com