Charles Gilmer

Charles "Chuck" Norman Gilmer, 74, passed away peacefully at home Saturday, April 7, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. He fought a long battle with MDS with great courage. Chuck was born on November 18, 1943 in Battle Creek, the oldest of four sons born to the late Howard and Genevieve (Raymer) Gilmer. He grew up on the family farm: Hillcrest Orchards in Augusta. He graduated from Kellogg High School In 1961 and went on to Michigan State University. He came home and found his career at the orchard with his father until his dad's retirement. He then purchased the orchard from his dad and operated it for over 30 years until his own retirement. He loved the land and spent his life caring for it. Chuck was united in marriage to the love of his life Cynthia (Cindy) Wood on May 25, 1984 on the top of a mountain at Heavenly Valley Ski Resort in Lake Tahoe, CA, and they enjoyed thirty-four years together. They also owned and operated Homespun Restaurants in Battle Creek until 2000. Chuck was an intelligent, creative, and endlessly curious man. He was always planning his next project or working on his farming equipment. He enjoyed the daily challenges of business. He made notes about all kinds of things on the little notepad he always carried in his front pocket. He loved to figure out how things worked, he was well read and well informed. Because of his work ethic and desire for getting things done right, he inspired others. He was much loved by many of those he mentored and worked with, as evidenced by their calls and visits during his last days. Chuck's adventurous spirit led him to flying at an early age, skiing all across the country with Cindy, family and friends. They went on motorhome journeys to new destinations as often as they could. He was most proud of the accomplishments of his children, grandchildren and all others he was able to help throughout his life. He is survived by Cindy, two daughters Vicki (Dan) Wessels and their children David and Brittany Wessels, Lisa Gilmer and her children, Ryan and Cameryn Hoerdemann, four great-grandchildren all of Colorado. He is also survived by two step-daughters Keli Weinberg of Florida and Kim Juarez of Battle Creek, and a special grandson Robert La Parl. Additional survivors include his three remaining brothers and their spouses: Don and Lynn Gilmer of Augusta, Jim and Sandy Gilmer of Colorado, and Tom and Diana Gilmer of Otsego, and two step-sisters Susan Cornett of Grand Rapids and Diane (Danny) Venditti of Canada. He also has several nieces and nephews including a special nephew Jason Gilmer. Chuck was cremated and his cremains will be placed in the family columbarium in Augusta Cemetery. There will be no visitation or formal services but there will be a Celebration of Chuck's Life on Sunday, April 22, 2018 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Blue Stem; Stoatin Brae Golf Course, 15579 E. Augusta Drive, Augusta, Ml 49012 for friends to visit with Cindy and the family. They all would like to express their gratitude for the many kindnesses extended to them during this difficult time. Memorial Contributions may be made to either the Battle Creek Cancer Center or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Arrangements are by Farley-Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.