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Andrew Mitchell Charles

June 3, 2020
Kalamazoo, MI

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Andrew (aka "Andy," "Gump," "Skrunt," "Dad") passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at his home in Kalamazoo, MI. Andy was born May 28, 1969 in Oak Park, Illinois, grew up in Wheaton, Illinois and graduated from Miami University (Ohio). He embarked on a career as a graphic designer, first in Ohio, then back home to Chicago - earning credit in several TV shows, movies, and countless other projects. Finally settling in Kalamazoo, Andy took an active role in raising his son and volunteering in the community. Most important in Andy's life was his son, William Andrew Charles, known to one and all as "Liam." Andy's eyes sparkled and his voice filled with pride when sharing stories of Liam's accomplishments and their adventures together - whether night swimming, boating, watching Bulls games or simply enjoying pretzels together. When Andy wasn't with Liam, he was probably golfing, or maybe watching the Cubs, Bears or Blackhawks. But to really know Andy was to know his charismatic wit, endless generosity and zest for life. He was never in a room without laughter. His family was the center, but he stayed close with his network of friends - from the gang in Briarcliffe South and Lowell Elementary School, to Wheaton Central High School and Miami University, then Cincinnati, Chicago and Kalamazoo. As a friend of Andy's once noted, a road trip with no destination is the ultimate ride. If you spent any time with him at all, you knew you were safe and likely going to end up in "the front row" - Andy just had a way about him that attracted good luck. He didn't plan, didn't stress. He was just himself - intelligent, extraordinarily friendly, and incredibly lucky. If you needed something, Andy often sensed it and offered before you could even ask. He opened his beautiful home to family, friends and neighbors, and pals from his favorite Kalamazoo hangout. He loved teaching his nieces and nephews the fine art of making "Papa's" pizza ("resist the urge to over-cheese!") and never turned down an opportunity to attend a good concert. Andy enjoyed using his creative talents to help his community and friends whenever anyone asked. He volunteered at Kalamazoo Country Day School and at Hospital Hospitality House of Kalamazoo, making meals for families staying there while a child was being treated. Andy is survived by his parents Carol and Bob Zenner of Oak Park and William and Holly Charles of Chicago, his son, the light of his life, "Liam" Charles; 4 sisters and 3 brothers, Michelle (Rick) Berens of Blaine, MN, Brian (Ann) Shoup of Wilmette, IL, Brett (Teresa) Shoup of Naperville, IL, Karen (Bryan) Purl of Naperville, IL, Amelia (Gary) Thomas of Roseville, CA, Josh (Janelle) Zenner of St. John's, FL and Megan (Charlie) MacConnachie of Lisle, IL, several fond aunts, uncles and cousins, and many nieces and nephews whom he adored. Andy also leaves a phenomenal group of friends, truly special people who are an extension of his family, and who will forever be connected to his family by the shared memories. The family will plan a celebration of life for a later date. Memorials may be directed to Hospital Hospitality House of Kalamazoo - hhhkz.org / 269-341-7811 or to Kalamazoo Civic Theater - my.kazoocivic.com. Please visit Andrew's personalized webpage for an online guestbook or to leave a condolence. Arrangements were made by the Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007. https://www.langelands.com