Submitted by: Dan Rich
Charles August Meuninck Jr.
South Bend Tribune 5/29/2006
Charles August Meuninck Jr., 65, of South Bend, died May
23, 2006.
Chuck was born November 24, 1940, in Mishawaka, to the late
Charles Sr. and Martha (Stowell) Meuninck.
He attended St. Joseph's High School in South Bend, and graduated from Mishawaka High School. Chuck went on to graduate with a dual bachelor's degree from the Art Institute of Chicago and the University of Chicago, and subsequently proved to be a gifted painter. He joined Vista in l965 and spent a year in California working with teenagers.
When he returned to the Midwest, Chuck
became a grade school teacher in Vandalia, Michigan, and later an
art teacher in junior high and high schools in Niles. He
continued to teach until 1993. Chuck was also a horse lover and
an accomplished rider and in his mid 30's managed a horse farm.
Later, through the Reins for Life program, he helped disabled
youngsters ride horses.
For many years, Chuck struggled with mental
illness, trying valiantly to conduct a meaningful life while
managing depression. Throughout, he remained a devoted son to his
parents, and cared for each some years before they died. Whenever
he felt able, he helped others, including friends and relatives
for whom he remained a willing and knowledgeable family
historian.
Chuck is survived by his sister, Marilyn
Meuninck of Boston, MA; two brothers, Tilton Cheney Meuninck of
Georgia and Jeffrey Meuninck of Mishawaka; as well as his beloved
niece, Abigail, and nephews, Benjamin, Troy and Todd; great
nieces, Taylor, Haleigh, Molly and Lily; and great nephew,
Garrett. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins,
nephews, nieces, and friends on whom he relied and whom he dearly
loved.
As Chuck requested, there will be no public
services or visitation. A private burial will take place at
Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka.
Chuck's family suggests contributions in his
memory be given to any organization which assists the mentally
ill.
The Meuninck family is being served by
Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 West Third
Street, Mishawaka.