Charles William Frank Havlicek (Chuck), age 74 of Manhattan, passed away peacefully at home on September 18, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Chuck was born on August 11, 1949 in Pawnee City, NE, the son of Charles Frank and Maxine Helen (Jacoby) Havlicek. He grew up DuBois, NE, attending grade school in DuBois and graduating from Pawnee City High School in 1967. From there, he went on to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (“UNL”), where he was an active member of the AgMen Fraternity and developed his love for travel with a trip to Nepal through the IFYE exchange program. Chuck graduated in 1972 with Honors and a BS in Agriculture and Agronomy followed by a Master’s degree in Adult and Continuing Education in 1977.
After graduation, Chuck worked as a Program Coordinator in the Division of Continuing Education at UNL until he and Barb made the decision to move their family to Manhattan, KS in 1985 for Chuck’s new job as the Assistant Director of Conferences in the Division of Continuing Education at Kansas State University. During this time at K-State, Chuck observed the need for more efficient and comprehensive registration software and began working on developing his own program. In 1988, this led to the creation of ACEware Systems, Inc. and Chuck’s ultimate departure from the University to run ACEware full time. He spent the remainder of his career as owner and CEO of the company until retiring in 2023.
Chuck was married to Barbara Jean Ostergard on May 26, 1973 and they were blessed with two daughters, Becci and Christina.
Chuck loved everything about life, he loved his family, and he loved his church! He was an active member of the Manhattan community as a member of the College Avenue United Methodist Church where he served in many leadership roles and capacities. He also volunteered as a 4-H Community Leader for a number of years, building on his lifelong love of 4-H as a youth and young adult. Additionally, Chuck served on numerous advisory committees for the Manhattan School District and as Co-Chair with Barbara for the Manhattan High School Booster Club.
Even with all of his community involvement, family was always Chuck’s first priority and his children and grandchildren were his pride and joy. He loved to travel, especially with his family, and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, gardening and most anything outdoors. He was a master woodworker, completing countless special projects for friends, his children and grandchildren.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Barbara, his daughter Becci Woods (Seth) of Apex, NC and his daughter, Christina Denton (Greg) of Houston, TX , five grandchildren, Zach Golonka, Ty Golonka, Harper Woods, Henry Denton, and Vivian Denton. Brothers Andy Havlicek (Sue) of McCook, NE and Jon Havlicek (Donna) of Mertztown, PA and many nieces and nephews.
Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Maxine Havlicek.
Cremation is planned with a memorial service to be held at the College Avenue Methodist Church in Manhattan, KS on November 10, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The family will greet friends at a visitation from 12:30-1:30 p.m at the church prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be made to the College Avenue United Methodist Church, The Good Shepherd Hospice House in Manhattan, or The Kansas 4-H Foundation. Contributions may be sent in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.