Born on July 15, 1941, in Deerfield, MI, Charles was the son of Eugene Yape and Georgia (Fischer) Yape. He graduated from Summerfield High School and married the love of his life, Sharon White, in 1961. Together they built a family rooted in loyalty, hard work and deep affection. Charles spent his career in the cement and stone crushing business, where he was known for his strong work ethic and unwavering dependability. A longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Riga, he carried his faith quietly but sincerely throughout his life. Though he carried a gruff exterior, Charles was known by those closest to him as a man with a heart of gold. He cherished time spent with his family, found joy in watching Westerns, and loved fishing for perch on Lake Erie-simple pleasures that brought him lasting happiness.
Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and by his aunts and uncles Gust & Edna Fischer and Frank & Elizabeth Gerber. Charles is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon; his sisters, Bonnie Danzeisen and Nancy (Dale) Kidd; his children, Bryan Yape, Shelly Harris, and Eric (Jennifer) Yape; grandchildren, Caleb, Justin, Julia, Jacob and Isaac; great-granddaughter, Covington; and nieces, Darcy, Adrianne, Angie and Allyn Sue, along with numerous other nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 5-7:00 p.m. at Wagley Funeral Home-Tagsold Chapel in Blissfield. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 22, at 11:00 a.m. at Wagley Funeral Home-Tagsold Chapel in Blissfield with Rev. Benjamin Roekle officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the start of the funeral service at the funeral home. Burial to follow at Riga Township Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Riga or to Hospice of Lenawee.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com.
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