Dr. Charles “Chuck” Edward Hassel, 94, went on to his next adventure on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023.
Charles was born on Sept. 11, 1929, in Mishawaka, to Edward and Elsie Hiatt Hassel. He graduated from Mishawaka High School on June 2, 1948, and went on to study at Ball State University, graduating from the Teachers College in May of 1953. While at Ball State, he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity as well as senior class president. On May 9, 1954, he married Janice Schurr, of Bremen. Together they had three children: Jill (Ted) Jones, of Bremen; Michael (Lisa) Hassel, of Round Rock, Texas; and Matthew (Jill) Hassel, of Bremen. Janice preceded him in death on March 19, 1967.
Upon his graduation, Charles joined the U.S. Air Force and served on active duty until Sept. 23, 1956. He served in the Air Force Reserve until 1973 with a rank of captain. He then graduated from IU School of Dentistry in 1967, having been on the dean’s list during all four years of his education. Upon graduation, Charles opened his dental practice in Bremen, where he practiced until retiring in 2009 at the young age of 80. During his career, Charles served as president of the Indiana Dental Society and was inducted into the International College of Dentists. He was an active member in the Bremen Kiwanis Club as well as the Kiwanis Indiana District. Charles was also a member of the VFW/American Legion of Bremen. On Jan. 6, 2001, Charles married Norma Boyer of North Webster. Together they shared nearly 23 years traveling, nurturing their families, serving their community and enjoying their golden years on Sechrist Lake.
Norma just preceded him in death on Oct. 16, 2023. Charles was a loving grandpa to four grandchildren: Valerie (Michael) Runyon, Tanner (Samantha Posani) Hassel, Kamryn Hassel and Caden Hassel. He is also survived by two stepchildren, Troy (Sheila) Boyer and Shelleigh Boyer; three stepgrandchildren: Brooks Boyer, Braden Boyer and Braxton Studabaker (Jossie Coy), and one stepgreat-grandchild, Ryker Boyer. He adored this large, blended family and delighted in the unique qualities and talents of every member.
Outside of his many professional accomplishments and accolades, Charles will always be fondly remembered for his sunny disposition, his strong faith, child-like sense of humor and insatiable thirst for knowledge. He was a lifelong student and often shared excerpts of his favorite books, articles and other discoveries with his loved ones. He adored plays and musicals and frequently shuffled around the house singing his favorite songs encouraging others to join in. He relished his families' endeavors and accomplishments - keeping extensive records, awards, photos and other relics for those he was so proud of. A beloved Dad Hassel trademark was his fun gift boxes filled with meaningful goodies which ALWAYS included his favorite Leman’s mints, a thoughtful letter of praise and were wrapped in an overabundance of duct tape. His fun-loving personality, pervasive smile and joyous disposition will be sorely missed by all. In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by a son-in-law, M. Paul Barrineau.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, Nov. 27 at Mishler Funeral Home, located at 2030 Ind. 331 in Bremen. A funeral service will follow at the funeral home at noon with Pastor Jon Hueni officiating. Burial will follow in Bremen Cemetery with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Bremen VFW and American Legion, 1750 W. Plymouth St., Bremen, IN 46506. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mishlerfuneralhomes.com.