Charles G. "Charlie" Demske

Charles Gene “Charlie” Demske, 61, of South Bend, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Memorial Hospital. Born on January 22, 1964, in Mishawaka, Indiana, Charlie was the son of the late Donald Gene “Pete” and LulaBelle (Caldwell) Demske. He graduated from Penn High School in 1983 and spent more than a decade working at Adorn Engineered Components.

Charlie is survived by his life partner, Robert Zimmerman, and their children, Tyler Zimmerman and Desiree (JR) Sharp. He also leaves behind his siblings: Ronald Demske, Deborah (Kevin) Brown, and Dianna Collins. Charlie adored his nieces and nephews, Nathan, Kimberly, Jonathan, Dustin, Tyler, Codylee, Austin, Kaytlyn, Joshya, and McKayla, along with many great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother Carl Gene Demske, and his brother-in-law, Ryan Collins. Sister in-law Mary Zimmerman ( Robin Mcgloughlin) brother in-law Richard Zimmerman, and mother in-law Dyanne Zimmerman .

Charlie was known for his big heart and adventurous spirit. He was an avid animal lover, especially devoted to his two Pekingese dogs, Nyla and Leila. He had a passion for travel and loved exploring new places. Hawaii and Cozumel were among his favorites. A certified scuba diving instructor, Charlie taught all his nieces and nephews how to swim. He also loved riding his Harley and proudly took his mom on several MDA fundraiser rides over the years.

Charlie had a fun-loving, sometimes silly personality. He was the life of the party at cookouts and pool parties with friends and family. Kids and dogs were naturally drawn to him, and he always made time for the people he loved. Fiercely loyal and endlessly kind, Charlie never turned away someone in need.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 2–4 p.m. at Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home in Mishawaka, with a funeral service beginning at 4 p.m. A graveside service will follow on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Osceola.

In his memory, donations may be made to the PNC Midwest Rescue at www.PNCmidwest.org. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Charlie’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.

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