Charles Fodness

Charles "Charlie" A. Fodness, 78, of Palo, died unexpectedly Friday October 14, 2011 at Essentia Health St. Mary's in Duluth MN surrounded by his family. Visitation will be 5-7 pm Wednesday October 19, 2011 at Ziemer-Moeglein- Shatava Funeral Home of Aurora, MN and one hour prior to the 11 am Funeral Thursday, October 20 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church of Palo, MN. Interment to be at Rauha Cemetery with military honors by the Aurora/Hoyt Lakes Honor Guard. He was born May 24, 1933 to Carl and Agnes (McFarland) Fodness at their home , in Big Woods township near Stephen, MN. Charlie grew up a child of the Great Depression. He learned responsibility, hard work, and the value of 50 cents at a young age. His first job was in a logging camp at age 14. Charlie was funny, kind, and generous, a family man of great physical stature with a gigantic handshake, memorable bearhugs ,and a twinkle in his eye. He had a tender heart, and loved working with the land, and was the proud owner operator of Charlie's Black Dirt for 40 plus years. Charlie married the love of his life, Ila Belange on April 18,1959 and together they raised a family in Palo. Over the years they welcomed countless foster children into their home and hearts. Charlie was an Army veteran of the Korean Conflict, and retired as Groundskeeper from the Aurora / Hoyt Lakes School after 24 years. He is dearly loved and will be sorely missed. He is preceded in death by his parents; and sister Elvera Sundby. Charlie is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Ila; three daughters Vicky (Dan) Rodewald of Prior Lake, Kelly (Wayde) West of Aurora, Karla Fodness of Rochester, son Matthew C Fodness of Aurora, foster son Chris (Bobbie) Munio of Glidden, Wi; six grandchildren Cody, Wyatt, Megan, Madelyn, Gunnar, Karlee; sister Lucille Qualley of Grand Forks, Doris Hector of Puyallup, Wa, brother, Lloyd(Barb) Fodness of Kerrick, Robert (Mary Ann) Fodness of Kerrick, sister Betty (Gene) Laurin of Argyle; nieces and nephews, numerous friends, many beloved animals and special grand-dog Blue.