Charles (Chuck) Herbert Rowell, age 75, of Canton, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on April 30, 2023 at University of Michigan Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April 26, 1948 to Herbert and Jacoba (VerBerkmoes) Rowell in Grand Haven, Michigan. Chuck married the love of his life, Carla Jane VanHees, on January 16, 1970, also in Grand Haven, and they were married 53 years before his passing.

Chuck graduated from Grand Haven High School and Muskegon Community College and went to work for Detroit Edison (now DTE) in various positions for almost 40 years before his retirement. Canton, Michigan was his home for more than 40 years, and he was also fond of Grand Haven and his family there.

Chuck was a man of faith and spent many years serving the Lord as an Elder in his church as well as leading Bible studies and groups, occasionally giving sermons, greeting others and enhancing the outdoor landscaping. Behind the scenes, he prayed daily and was quick to help when someone needed assistance. He was also a leader in the Alcoholics Anonymous community as well as a sponsor throughout his years in the program.

Chuck loved photography, and he could see a unique shot in any setting. He owned several cameras over the years and took photos of family gatherings, special events, nature and scenery throughout the world. Lighthouses were his favorite subject to photograph.

Chuck loved to travel. As his kids were growing up, every year his family of four went on trips; visiting relatives, camping, Disney World and a month-long car trip out West one year. He and Carla toured many cities and countries, and Chuck enjoyed the history and beauty of every place they visited. He spent hours on his computer before a trip researching and planning the sights he wanted to explore.

His thoughtfulness, generosity and faith will be forever appreciated and remembered as well as his talented eye for capturing the beauty of life through photography.

Chuck is lovingly remembered and survived by his wife, Carla; daughter, Heather (Steve) Thelan; son, Matt (Susan) Rowell; granddaughter, Kaitlyn Thelan; sisters, Emily (Jess) Jewell and Betty (Jack) Wydeck; several nieces, nephews and cousins and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Jacoba; his brother, George; his sister, June and brother-in-law, Mike; and his nephew, Jesse.

Visitation for Chuck will be held at Grace Canton Church in Canton, Michigan on Saturday, June 3 at 1 PM and a Celebration of Life service will immediately follow at 2 PM. Funeral arrangements are provided by John N. Santeiu & Son Funeral Home, Garden City, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Clinic or the American Cancer Society .