Charles "Charlie" Ralph Nielsen, 75, passed away Thursday, June 7, 2018, at Spectrum Health Butterworth in Grand Rapids.  He was born March 28, 1943, in Ludington, the son of Niels and Ruth Nielsen.

Charlie served as a medic in the US Army during the Vietnam Era, stationed in Korea, and was honorably discharged in 1966.

In 2000, Charlie retired from Consumers Energy, in Ludington, where he had been employed for 33 years.  In his spare time, Charlie loved working outdoors in his garden, meticulously maintaining his yard, and detailing and working on his vehicles.  He was a very talented man, including his wood-working, metal art and drawings. Charlie had an ability to fix just about anything.  He loved boating with his wife on Hamlin Lake, and being with his beloved Irish Setters.  He always looked forward to the Thursday morning breakfasts with his friends at Brenda's Harbor Café.  Charlie also enjoyed the winters he was able to spend in Arizona riding his four-wheeler.

On February 14, 1969, in Ludington, Charlie married Barbara Ann Utz, who survives him.  He is also survived by: his children, John (Erika) Nielsen of Commerce Township, Jay Nielsen of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Kelly Barz of Ludington; his grandchildren, Shealy Nielsen, Andrew Barz and Chloe Barz; his sisters, Nancy Nielsen of Ludington, Mary (Herb) Buckley of Hart and Shirley (John) Tanis of Ludington; his brother, James Nielsen of Scottville; his sister-in-law, Doris (Joseph) Garnecky of Lansing; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, June 13, 2018, at Victory Trinity Lutheran Church, 3208 W. Victory Drive, Ludington, with Pastor William Huether officiating.  Visitation will be held Tuesday from 6-8 PM, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel, 309 S. Washington Avenue, Ludington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Victory Trinity Lutheran Church or Mason County Animal Control.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com