Charles "Charlie" Tongusi

Munising

Charles “Charlie” Wayne Tongusi, age 79, of Munising, died Monday, August 3, 2026 at U.P. Health Systems in Marquette. He was born on May 26, 1947 in Munising to the late Robert and Nellie (Tyner) Tongusi. Charlie graduated from Wm. G. Mather High School in 1965. He married Susan McCollum on August 2, 1986 and together they raised their daughter Emily. Charlie worked at Timber Products and retired as a veneer grader after 26 years of service. His health over the past five years has made things difficult, needing to go to Marquette three days a week for dialysis. But Charlie didn’t let his ailments keep him down, he was one of the most patient men and said that a good attitude could carry you through even the toughest times. He made many friends with those receiving care in the dialysis unit, the medical staff, and the Altran drivers who got him back and forth no matter how bad the weather was. Charlie enjoyed being outside and taking many walks, going five miles a day for years. He also enjoyed trivia, crossword puzzles, Wheel of Fortune, piecing together giant jigsaw puzzles, and he never met a cup of coffee he didn’t like. Charlie’s ultimate love was being a Papa. He loved spending time with his grandkids, playing, and snuggling in his chair for a nap with them.

Charlie is survived by his daughter – Emily (Mike Schierschmidt) Tongusi; although separated, close friend – Sue Tongusi; grandchildren – Wyatt, Charlotte, Henry, and Athena; siblings – Shirley Johnson, Jake Tongusi, Terry Tongusi, and Darlene (Steve) Richardson; brother-in-law - George Reimer; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents – Robert and Nellie; siblings – Pat (Floyde) McQuisten, Robert H. Tongusi, Mary Jean (Dennis) Humphrey, Donna Reimer, infant brother Robert, Joseph, John, and Joseph; and brother-in-law – Glenn Johnson.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.