Charles Russell “Charlie” Van Pelt, age 86, of Overbrook, KS died January 28, 2024, at Stormont Vail Health in Topeka as the result of an auto accident.
He was born in Manhattan, on April 12, 1937, the son of Russell Peter and Myrel Faye (Frakes) Van Pelt. He grew up in Manhattan and had lived in Willard, MO, and Grove, OK, prior to moving to Overbrook in June of 2023.
Charlie had worked as a mechanic, a cattle hauler, and then for Certainteed Siding first as a driver, then in sales prior to being the manger until his retirement. He and his wife Carol enjoyed many trips that Charlie earned with Certainteed.
He loved to be outdoors and enjoyed fishing, camping, riding motorcycles, travelling and spending time on the water. He also enjoyed buying and selling boats.
Charlie was married to Anita McInteer and they later divorced. He later married Carol D. Ruebke on February 17, 1979, in Hutchinson, KS. Carol preceded Charlie in death on January 17, 2014. He was also preceded in death by two siblings: Gary R. “Corky” Van Pelt and Helen E. “Sue” Taylor; his son in law Carey Berry; and by his step-son Arnold Ruebke.
Survivors include his two children: Randy Van Pelt of Yoder, Kansas, and Terry Berry of Oberlin, KS; step daughter Juanita Spitzenberger and her husband Barry; four grandchildren: Heather, Wendy, Levi and James; and three great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M. Friday, February 2nd, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, February 3rd, at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Chapel with Reverend Dennis Ackerman officiating. Interment will follow in the Bala Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Tuttle Creek Lake Association for the Youth Fishing Clinic. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.