Charles W. Smithson

He was born July 21, 1924 in Farmington, Minn., to Robert and Cecile Smithson. Immediately after graduating from Humboldt High School, Chuck enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served during W.W. II in England, France and Belgium. Upon his discharge from the military Chuck completed his Bachelor’s Degree in music at McPhail Music College. On August 30, 1947 Chuck married his high school sweetheart, Mildred F. Boettcher. He taught music in Wrenshall, Minn., for 28 years, before retiring in 1983.

Chuck was a very active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and held many offices. After retiring he did volunteer work for Meals on Wheels and the area Alzheimer’s organization.

Chuck was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mildred, whom he had cared for, at home for many years and by his parents.

He is survived by his children, Mark (Gale) of Duluth, Thomas (Susan), of Mukilteo, WA and Laura (Bob) Christner, of Elk River, MN; six grandchildren, Daniel, David and Joseph Smithson, Leslie Smithson, Matthew (Kari) Christner and Sarah (Andrew) Polgreen; two great-grandchildren, Joseph and Jacob.

The family would like to thank the staffs of Edgewood Vista and St. Luke’s Hospital and Hospice for their care and support.

Visitation from 2:00pm until the 3:00pm funeral service Sunday, March 6th in Redeemer Lutheran Church. Burial will be 11:00am Monday, March 7th at Riverview Cemetery, W. St. Paul. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 9503 Grand Avenue, Duluth, MN 55808 or the American Cancer Society, 130 W. Superior St., LL2, Suite 200, Duluth, MN 55802. Please leave a memory of Chuck or words of support for the family at www.bellbrotherfuneralhome.com Arrangements by the Bell Brothers Funeral Home.