Charlie Bailey

Charles “Charlie” James Bailey was a devoted family man, whose world revolved around his wife, children and grandchildren. He was loving and supportive, providing for them in every way. His family could always count on Charlie for a smile, words of encouragement, some common sense advice and a hug whenever it was needed.

On October 12, 1931 in Wakeshma Township, Michigan, Charles James came into the world, welcomed by his proud parents, Willard and Hazel Bailey, his brother Nolan and sister Phyllis. During his early years, Charlie lived on a farm with his family and attended a one-room schoolhouse. In 1949, he graduated from Athens High School, where he lettered in baseball, basketball, football and track. Charlie’s favorite sport was baseball, and he continued to play on city leagues after high school.

Charles was 19 when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He served his country for four years as an electrician in an installation squadron. With appreciation from a grateful nation, Charlie was awarded the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.

Once home, Charlie settled in Portage, Michigan and became a certified union bricklayer. Over a career that spanned 42 years, he helped construct many buildings in the Kalamazoo area. He also put down roots when he met Betty Karnes shortly after his return. The two were married May 11, 1957 and eventually became a family of four when son Scott and daughter Kelly were born.

Charlie was actively involved with his children while they were growing up. He coached Little League Baseball, Rocket Football and never missed his kids’ high school games or meets. Just south of Kalamazoo, the family lived on Austin, West and Gourdneck Lakes, where they created wonderful memories as they enjoyed good times together.

Among his many activities, Charlie liked waterskiing, hunting and gardening. Yet his lifelong passion was golf. He looked forward to playing with his buddies on the Thursday senior golf league at States Golf Course and was eager to teach the game to new players (aka Grandsons).

In time, the family grew to include three grandchildren: Matthew, Mitchell and Jackson. For a good many years, Charlie enriched their lives by his entertaining stories and positive outlook. He spent time with them, teaching them important life lessons as well as games like Euchre, pool and of course golf. Whenever the boys visited Kline’s Resort, Charlie proudly took them around, cruising on the pontoon boat or golf cart.

On his 82nd birthday, October 12, 2013, Charles James Bailey was lifted to rest in heaven to be with his heavenly Father. He leaves behind a loving family and many cherished friends who will miss him dearly. They echo this sentiment: “We will carry his amazing spirit with us always” and “God’s children never say goodbye for the last time.” To quote hymn writer John Fawcett, “When we asunder part, it give us inward pain; But we shall still be joined in heart, and hope to meet again.”

A memorial service for Charles will be held on Thursday October 17th at West Mendon United Methodist Church; 22994 Portage Lake Rd, Mendon, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his siblings Nolan Bailey and Phyllis Hansen. He was married to Betty Bailey for 56 years and they have two children Scott (Theresa) Bailey and Kelly (Brian) Putnam. He is survived by three grandchildren Matthew Bailey, Mitchell & Jackson Putnam. Visit Charles memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can read his life story, archive a memory or photo and sign his guest book. The family was cared for by Life Story Funeral Homes, Vicksburg; 409 S. Main St. (269-649-1697)