Charles Lee Oatten

      Charles Lee “Chuck” Oatten age 65 from St. Louis, Michigan passed away Friday, October 4, 2024, at My-Michigan, Alma, MI.
        Chuck was born on May 13, 1959, to Robert Lyle and Shirley Jean (Engelhardt) Oatten in Saginaw, Michigan. Chuck was a 1977 graduate of Swan Valley High School where he excelled in football and baseball, even being scouted by the Cincinnati Reds. On May 8, 1999, Chuck married the love of his life, Debra Greening. They enjoyed 25 wonderful years of marriage.
      Chuck was an honorary Life Member of the Alma Elks Lodge #1400, where he quickly moved through the ranks of Elkdom. He joined the Lodge in 2001 and became the Exalted Ruler in 2004. He served as District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler (2008), State Trustee (2009-2016), and State President (2019-2020). He was also the recipient of the Spirit of St. Louis Award and Elk of the Year.
      Chuck enjoyed traveling with his wife, seeing 44 of the U.S. states, golfing, and all sports, but especially the University of Michigan teams and the Detroit Lions.
      Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, brother Craig, brothers-in-law: Richard Greening, and James Morton.
      Survivors include his beloved wife Debb, sisters-in-law: Cheryl Oatten, Beverly Morton; brother-in-law James (Shirley) Greening, nieces: Stephanie Copeman, Cam Greening (Don Calkins), and Heather Greening (Krista Smith); and nephews: Steven (Bethany) Oatten, Michael (Kelly) Greening, Zachary (Camille) Greening, Christopher Greening, and Nicholas (Melissa) Morton; and 5 great nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his Aunt Nancy Frost, many special friends too numerous to mention, and his kitties: Sarabi, and Ruby.
      Per Chuck’s wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no funeral service, but a celebration of life and Elks Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
     Memorials can be made to the Elks National Foundation through the Alma Elks Lodge or to the family to help with expenses. Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by the Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, Michigan.