Charles Louis “Chuck” Weber, 81, passed on from this world on February 17, 2025, leaving a legacy of love, generosity, humility, and technological curiosity. Chuck was the only child of Louis and Dorothy Weber, born on March 1, 1943. Growing up in Des Plaines, Illinois, the family often traveled to their cottage near his parents’ home town of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Along the bay shore, Chuck learned the joys of extended family, fishing, the North Woods, and the Green Bay Packers.
Chuck met his beloved wife, Mary Hainault Weber, while studying at Michigan Tech University. After their graduation, they married and moved to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Chuck and Mary raised and supported a strong and loving family in a marriage that exceeded 55 years. Their children treasure memories of fishing in the St. Mary’s River, picnics by the Soo Locks, and exploring the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula.
After receiving his master’s degree in electrical engineering, Chuck taught at Lake Superior State University for 29 years and helped start the LSSU Computer Engineering Technology program. A tinkerer at heart, Chuck delighted in technology and in inspiring others to explore its possibilities. He was appreciated by students, respected by colleagues, and continued his support of LSSU as emeritus professor. He co-founded Soo Microsystems, a small business that sold computers and promoted technological growth in the Eastern UP.
In retirement Chuck extended his generosity to another generation. He and Mary moved to South Bend, Indiana. Closer to grandchildren, they enjoyed Notre Dame hockey and women’s basketball together and with family. They supported grandkids at school and sports events and Chuck shared his love of fish, birds, gardening, and dogs. He loved to give gifts and make puns. His family happily remembers Saturday morning pancakes, although Chuck also liked to joke that he “cooked with his wallet.”
Growing up riding trains, Chuck had a lifelong love of railroads. He enthusiastically pursued rail excursions and collected books, videos, and model trains. His active participation in train groups and historical societies led to cherished friendships throughout the Midwest.
Chuck’s faith was integral to his life. He and Mary belonged to the faith communities of St. Mary’s and St. Joseph’s parishes and the LSSU Newman Center in Sault Ste. Marie, then later, St. Therese Little Flower and Christ the King parishes in South Bend.
Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his daughter Sara (Chris) Weber-Hess; his sons Lou (Tracy) Weber and Paul (Emily) Weber; 12 cherished grandchildren: Mairi Mac, Nora, Dorothy, Jack, TJ, Charlie, Daniel, Nate, Noah, Evelyn, Rhen, and Gemma; and Mary’s dear siblings Nancy, Tony (Greg), and Paula (Roger).
A visitation for Chuck will be held on Sunday, February 23, 2025 from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm in the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Dr. South Bend, IN. A funeral service will take place on Monday, February 24, 2025 at 10:00 am at Christ the King Catholic Church, 52473 State Road 933, South Bend, IN. Burial will be in Lake Linden, Michigan, at a later date.
Memorial contributions in Chuck’s name may be made to Lake Superior State University or to the St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Joseph County.
