Charles D. Mierau

Charles David Mierau, 85, of Benton Harbor, formerly of St. Joseph, passed away Sunday, April 8, 2007, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. A memorial Service celebrating his life will be held at 3:00 P.M., on Wednesday, April 11, 2007, at Kerley-Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Visitation with the family will be held Tuesday evening, from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Activities Fund at Jordan’s Nursing Home. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Charles was born on June 7, 1921, in Detroit to Frederick & Theresa Mierau. Charles was a 1939 graduate of Berrien Springs High School. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard. Charles was a longtime member of American Legion Post 568 in Stevensville. He was the owner and publisher of both the Journal Era and the Lakeshore Courier Newspapers. He loved outdoor activities including fishing and golf. Additionally he was an avid baseball and football fan. Charles is survived by his children, Claudia (Wayne) Kaiser of Benton Harbor, James of Marquette, MI, Michael (Mary Ann) of Stevensville, and Lindsey (Sue) Mierau of Stevensville; 9 grandchildren; and by 3 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters; and by his dear friend, Doris Wohler.