Charles Henry Roelke (Charlie) passed away on January 30, 2026, at the age of 93. Charlie was born on November 3, 1932, to Gilbert and Ada (Coldwell) Roelke. Charlie grew up in the Arena area and graduated from Arena High School class of 1950.

Soon after graduation he met the love of his life, Verna Thiers. Charlie and Verna were married on September 5,1953 and enjoyed 71 years of marriage before Verna passed away in December of 2024.

Charlie was one of the very first employees of Wick Buildings in Mazomanie. He was employed there until his eyesight failed him and he had to retire in his late 40's, after which he continued to help on the Roelke Family Farm until his retirement. Charlie was a longtime member of United Church of Christ and the Mazomanie Historical Society.

In his younger days, Charlie enjoyed slow pitch softball, bowling, and an occasional cold beer. He was known for doing things slowly and methodically but with great attention to detail and enjoyed reading and watching Badger and Packer games. He also had an amazing memory, especially while playing euchre and knowing what cards each player had left in their hands.

Charlie was very vocal about his great dislike of cold green beans but would never turn down a good ham sandwich or a Mushroom and Swiss Burger from Culver's.

Whenever anyone asked him how he was doing, he always replied "Mean as Ever!" - but we knew that wasn't true. His face would light up with a big smile whenever his grandkids and great grandkids came for a visit. Charlie was so very proud of all of them and the love he had for them was evident.

He is survived by his children; Steve (Anne), Sue (Scott) Fredericksen, and Scott (Judy). Charlie is also survived by two brothers: James (Dianne), and Richard (Elise). He is further survived by his grandchildren; Kristen (Andy) Shelton, Elizabeth (Adam) Boyadjis, and Daniel (Allison Rygh), Hannah Fredericksen, Josie Fredericksen, Ada Roelke (John Coyle), and Charlotte Roelke. He was thrilled to have 4 great grandchildren, Cora and Drew Shelton, and William and Russell Boyadjis. His brother-in-law Robert Niendorf also survives him along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Verna; Charlie was preceded in death by in laws Allene (Bernie) Liegel, Carol Neindorf, Barbara Mellum, and Leroy Mellum, and a special grandson, Joshua James Roelke.

We would like to thank the Pines Assisted Living in Prairie du Sac for their support and special care of Charlie.

We love you Dad, Grandpa and we will miss you dearly. Give Mom a hug from us.

The family is planning a celebration of his life in the Spring.