Serving West Michigan Since 1899

Charles Clevenger

December 11, 1935 - December 15, 2022
Holland, MI

//cdn.lifestorynet.com/obituaries/01d/142048/142048-00.jpg

Life Story / Obituary


Print

Charles (Chuck) Theron Clevenger passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 15, 2022, after battling a long illness. Chuck was always proud of his time in the service, an Army Veteran, often referred to by his drill sergeant as “That smartmouth from Indiana.” He was one of 10 children who always struggled to know where their next meal was coming from. This motivated Chuck to never have to worry again. He always reveled in the fact that he graduated from Indiana Tech after barely being able to spell his own name when he enrolled. He kept pushing until he graduated from Michigan State, becoming a lifelong Spartan fan. His passion to succeed and surpass his upbringing drove him to start many businesses throughout his life. His mind was always going full steam while he fancied himself a modern inventor. These businesses also gave him the ability to help others escape the hand of cards life had dealt. He embodied the American dream, and wanted to help others achieve theirs as well. Chuck had a constant love of adventure. Whether it was cruising around town with his decades-long best friend, Neal King, to globetrotting with friends and family. Chuck loved new experiences, but this never deterred him from appreciating the little things either. He spent numerous weekends, camping with his grandchildren, trying to give them the same experiences he gave his kids. Chuck went from a small shack in Indiana to being able to see the world. He loved traveling, from Europe to China, and spent many winters in Mexico. As Chuck would say, “Not bad for a country boy from the armpit of the midwest.” Chuck is proceeded in death by his oldest daughter, Jean Richters. He is survived by his sons, Marc (Beth) Clevenger, Todd Clevenger, and his youngest daughter, Amara (Jay) Engstrøm, as well as his grandchildren, Nate (Sharayah) Clevenger, Alex (Nicky) Clevenger, Amanda Clevenger, Torry (Charles) Dempsey, and Brad (Michelle) Clevenger. He is also survived by his youngest sister, Jane Simmons. There will be a private family military funeral service on Friday, January 20th, where he will be remembered with love. Arrangements are by the Dykstra Funeral Home-Northwood Chapel.