Kenneth Charles ‘Chuck’ Wanberg

Chuck was born in Flint, Michigan, on July 25, 1938, the son of Bernard and Pauline (Brock) Wanberg. Chuck was raised in Marquette, the community he would proudly call home throughout his life. He attended Marquette Senior High School, but was not able to graduate with his class due to his enlistment in the United States Army and later the Navy. Chuck would go on to complete his education later in life, proudly receiving his high school diploma in 1973.

Chuck’s military service took him to Fort Leonard Wood, to Barbers Point in Hawaii, and to Japan. He also served aboard an aircraft carrier, an experience he carried with pride throughout his life. During his time in the service, he played for both the Iron Rangers and the Sentinels. Chuck received an honorable discharge after completing his dedicated military career.

After returning home, Chuck worked at Cliff Dow Chemical Company and later at the Veneer Sawmill. On June 25, 1960, he married the love of his life, Judith Haley, and together they raised their family in Marquette. Over the years, Chuck held various jobs to support his family before eventually joining the Board of Light and Power at the Diesel Plant, transitioning to the newly built Shiras Steam Plant where he worked faithfully for a majority of his career until his retirement in 1993.

Chuck lived a full and grounded life, marked by humility, hard work, and devotion to community. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time at camp. An active member of the Marquette Elks Lodge B.P.O.E. 405, he achieved the distinguished title of Past District Deputy Exalted Ruler. His faith was also central to his life. At St. Christopher Parish, he served in numerous roles over the years, including on the finance council and as a leader on several parish building projects. After retirement, he continued to give back by serving two terms on the Board of Light and Power.

Chuck appreciated the simple pleasures, good food, time spent with family, and quiet moments outdoors. He was a man with a strong work ethic, a generous heart, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. He lived by the philosophy that the glass was always half full.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Judith; his children, Randy (Jane) Wanberg of Marquette and Ronda (Robert) Cochran of Marquette; grandchildren, Joshua (Melissa Lehtomaki) Wanberg, Shontelle Epper, Bradley (Holly) Cochran, and Lindsey (Alex) Ameffio; and five great-grandchildren, Zandyn, Cameron, Isabella, Lilly, and Sophia. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as Brother and sister in Law; Pete and Marilyn LaRue along with special friends, Debbie and Lisa, who were like daughters to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Ronald Kenneth and his sisters, Eva Lucas and Jean Carlson as well as In-laws Michael and Amelia Haley

Funeral services for Chuck will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at St. Christopher Catholic Church in Marquette. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 pm. Rev. Dan Moll, pastor, will be the celebrant. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall. Interment, with veterans honors, will be made at 2:30 pm at the Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UPAWS, 815 S. M-553, Gwinn, MI 49841 or St. Christopher Catholic Church, 2372 Badger Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

The Canale Tonella Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family, where condolences may be expressed online at canalefuneral.com