Charles Arthur Van Ameyden

The oldest son of Orrilla H. and James W. VanAmeyden, Charles was born September 18, 1939 in Nashville, Michigan. One year later, he became a big brother to George. The family lived in Battle Creek for fifteen years before settling in nearby Augusta, into a home on a hill that they all helped to build. DIY was in Charles’ DNA.

Early on, Charles learned the art of being able to dish-it-out and take-it with equal good humor. He usually dished-out first, but mostly in jest, and this led to him being known as “Josh.” In July 1961, Josh and Joanne (Stanford) spoke their wedding vows. Their daughter Vicki arrived the next year, followed by two sons, Dave six years later, and Paul three after that. “Josh & Jo’s” 57-year relationship culminated in the birth of three grandchildren and the building of their dream home in Ludington, Michigan. Here is where they enjoyed retirement with unparalleled views of Lake Michigan, except wintertime. In winter they became ‘winter Texans’, enjoying six months of Gulf Coast climate in Harlingen, Texas.

Graduating from Galesburg-Augusta High School, Josh then earned an Associate Degree from Kellogg Community College. Soon after, he became employed by the Kellogg Company and a member of the American Federation of Grain Millers, retiring as a Millwright after 37 years. His obsession with tools was well-honed. He could repair or build just about anything because he had tools, know-how, and tenacity—from conveyor systems, lawn mowers, boat motors, auto repair, kitchen and bathroom remodels, decks that became rooms, crafting a grandfather clock, and finally a castle on the beach of Lake Michigan.

One of Josh’s greatest joys was being on the water with the wind in the sails. It started in the 1970’s with a 10' Sunfish, followed by a 14' Bantam, 26' Balboa, and finally a 30' Catalina, with three fishing/skiing powerboats and a wooden canoe sprinkled in-between. The family sailed to many Great Lakes ports and marinas, with his favorite cruise taken with his sons to Mackinaw Island. He knew how to navigate using the stars—if he had to. Committed to boating safety, Josh and Joanne volunteered with the Kalamazoo and Pere Marquette chapters of the United States Power Squadron (USPS): conducting hundreds of vessel safety checks, teaching navigation classes, managing trade shows, participating in parades, attending regional and national conferences, and holding offices. A 53-year member of the USPS, Josh held the office of Squadron Commander in 2003, 2010, and from 2013-2018. He was a longstanding member of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, member of the Goguac and Ludington Yacht Clubs, Parrot Head Club, Lions Club, and served as a Cub Scout Master.

Josh and Joanne took cruise ships to the Caribbean, Alaska, and Italy. They toured Europe, and sailed the Caribbean to celebrate their 25th anniversary. Family memories were made renting summer houses on Michigan lakes, traveling to Florida, the East Coast, and western states in a pop-up camper. Far and wide, they attended VanAmeyden family reunions.

Losing his wife Joanne in 2017, Josh found Frances Ilnicky, and they soon married. This is clear evidence that miracles do happen and people can change. Josh became known as “Charlie,” and he bonded with a ten-pound terrier-mix mutt rescue named Daisy Mae. Charlie curbed his enthusiasm for alcohol and found comfort in Catholicism. These changes grew from his loving relationship with Frances. In 2022, they made Harlingen, Texas their permanent residence.

Charles is predeceased by his parents, Jim and Orrilla; wife, Joanne; and brother, George; along with aunts, uncles and cousins.

His wife, Frances survives along with her children, Joseph Poisson (Margo Cox) and Allison Garceau (Doug). Also surviving are his three children: Vicki (Brian Rowden), David (Kristin Clark), and Paul (Laura) with their three children, Devon, Eric, and Michael; sister-in-law, June VanAmeyden, along with many of his first cousins, survive as well.

Cremation took place with Heavenly Grace Funeral Home in Harlingen, Texas. A Catholic Mass will be offered in Harlingen at a later date, and Celebration of Life is planned for early summer 2024 in Ludington, Michigan.