Charles Valukas

Charles A. Valukas RACINE – Charles A. Valukas, 74, passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2014. Charles was born in Racine, WI on May 21, 1939 to Anthony and Lucille (nee: Helling) Valukas. Charles graduated from St. Catherine’s High School “Class of 1957 and on September 8, 1962, he married the former Barbara Ann Orthey. He was employed by Twin Disc retiring after more than 40 years of service and a longtime member of Christ Church United Methodist. Charles enjoyed playing dartball, bowling, and going to casinos. He could frequently be heard yelling at the television during Packers or Brewers games. His greatest pleasure came from his children and grandchildren -- Charles enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren in their many activities and especially loved family Up North and other vacations. His quick wit and humor endeared him to all who knew him. Charles’ grandchildren called him Grumps which aptly summed up his gruff exterior covering his tender and soft inside. Charles is survived by his children; Victoria (Robert) Kiefer, Jodi (Gary) Kuhl, and Frederick Valukas, his grandchildren; Nathaniel Kuhl, Keefer Kuhl, Katrina Kiefer, and Mason Kiefer, siblings; Lorraine Petersen, Janet (Charles) Iggulden, Gloria Valukas, Wayne (Cindy) Valukas; brother-in-law Robert (Jody) Orthey; sister-in-law Joyce (Lon) Laehr; and nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara; his parents Lucille and Anthony Valukas; niece Sharon Iggulden; and brother-in-law Calvin Petersen. The entire Valukas family would like to extend a very special heartfelt thanks to Drs. Mark DeCheck and Michael Mullane, along with their staff who cared for Charles in a gentle and positive way. A service celebrating Charles’ life will be held at Christ Church United Methodist, 5109 Washington Avenue on Saturday, April 5, 2014 at 10 a.m. with Rev. George Kafer officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at Sturino Funeral Home on Friday, April 4, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. and at church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until service time at 10:00 a.m. Those wishing to remember Charles in a special way may direct memorials to Downtown Racine Corporation, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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Charles Valukas

May 21, 1939 - March 30, 2014