Charles H. Tanger

June 14, 1927 – July 12, 2023

On Wednesday, July 12, 2023, Charles H. Tanger died peacefully at the age of 96, after his loved ones had recited the final verse of his favorite hymn. He took his last breath surrounded by family, set free from earthly pain to be greeted by the angels.

Born on June 14, 1927, Charles was the son of Gustav and Lenora Tanger. His father passed away when Charles was under the age of two, and from then on Charles was raised by his mother and grandmother, who lived with them. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Mankato, MN. Charles attended grammar school at the University of Mankato's teacher training school. His high school years were spent at Bethany Lutheran High School, from which he graduated in 1945.

Charles entered the U.S. Army in 1945 and served in Germany during the final years of World War II. Upon his return home, he enrolled at Mankato State University. One day, he spotted a cute blonde and called on her to meet for a Coke at the local candy kitchen. That led to 75 years of marriage.

Charles and Hazel Ellingboe were married on March 6, 1948 at Christiania Lutheran Church in rural Farmington, MN. They raised four sons together, moving eight times to various cities in Minnesota and Wisconsin for Charles's job with Amoco Oil Company, finally landing in Wausau in 1968. Charles took early retirement from Amoco at the age of 50, working locally at Wausau Energy and then Carlson Oil Company, until he officially retired in 1990. Charles and Hazel enjoyed many years of retirement, traveling the world and visiting Europe, China, and even the USSR. They were part of the Valley Bummers Snowmobile Club and camped all over the U.S., including memorable spots in Alaska, California, Texas, and Arizona. In 2020, they completed their final adventure and have remained at home since then.

Charles was actively involved in community outreach through Greater Wausau Christian Services, including jail and nursing home ministry as well as volunteer work with the Neighbors Place, having a positive impact on many. Charles participated in the local Sons of Norway club. He served on the board of Mt. Carmel, a camping ministry in Alexandria, MN and enjoyed many summer visits there with Hazel and their grandchildren. Charles and Hazel have been active members at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, serving in various roles over the years. Charles also enjoyed antique furniture restoration, particularly special pieces that he and Hazel found at auctions.

Charles was a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and mentor, respected for his knowledge of current events, wise advice, and service to others. The way in which he lived will continue to be a model for his family. He lived a life of faith and purpose, and anyone who knew him was truly blessed.

Charles is survived by his wife, Hazel; his four sons, Charles (Joan), Robert (Rona), Richard (Janina), and David (Elizabeth); 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and many cherished relatives and friends.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Aspirus Wausau Hospital and Renaissance Rehab Center for the compassionate care provided to Charles during his final days.

A visitation and funeral will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Rothschild, WI. Visitation is scheduled from 11:00AM-1:00PM with a service at 1:00PM. A fellowship luncheon will follow, honoring Charles's special notes: "Be Happy! Smile! Laugh!"

John J. Buettgen Funeral Home is assisting the family at this time.  Online condolences may be expressed at HonorOne.com