Charles Ernst Menke was born on October 27th, 1929 in Hackensack, New Jersey. He played many sports really well in high school but was recruited for baseball by the NY Giants upon graduation. When he joined the Marines in 1952 he went on to play baseball for them also until he was sent to Korea. While on leave he met a beautiful fiery redhead named Joan Cassidy and they were married on March 6th, 1954. After he left the Marines Joan and Chuck traveled the country for his baseball career for a few years until his 1st daughter was born. Joan and Chuck had 4 daughters, Linda, Diane, Beth, and Cindy. Chuck was a true blue American. He fought for his country, had a semiprofessional baseball career (pitching 2 no-hitters), was a dedicated family man working 2-3 jobs to support his family so Joan could be home with the girls, and eventually went to work for the United States Postal Service. He was president of his branch of the union for USPS and went to DC and all over the country for conventions. When he retired he was president of the board for the Forest Woods HOA for 20 years. But above all else, he was a loving husband and family man. He always provided, protected, and cherished his family. He always showed up to cheer us on and helped us when we fell down. He went home to his bride on November, 16th 2022, and leaves behind 4 daughters, 2 Sons-in-Law, 8 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren & his loyal companion to the end his dog Toots. He will be missed so much by us all. He was a truly great man with a huge heart.
Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home - Hudson Chapel
Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home - Hudson Chapel
Maryrose Nicolazzi
November 18, 2022, 11:53 am
To the Menke family………I was sorry to hear about Chuck’s passing. He and your mom Joan were very valued members of the Forestwood community and contributed so much to its being one of the nicest places to live. My John knew them both for many years as he and his second wife were the third residents to come to Forestwood. After he was widowed and we met, your father and Joan came to our wedding. My fondest memories were of he and John always sparring about which service branch was the best. Of course your dad was for the Marines and John was for the Navy (WWII). They both got so heated up but it always ended in being even steven since no one would give in and they remained friends and sharing their experiences.
My thoughts and prayers are that he and Joan are somehow reunited and enjoying a better existence together.
With fondest memories,
Maryrose Nicolazzi (neighbor at Forestwood who always stopped to ask you to tell him hello from me)
Dawn Schaffer
November 19, 2022, 10:50 pm
Cindy and Family
Cindy, I am so sorry for the loss of you dad. He was a true gentle giant. Always a smile on his face and a friendly hello when I went tomyouirnhkuse after school. I will remember him fondly
Sending love and sympathy
Dawn Schaffer
Julie Calidonio
November 20, 2022, 5:30 pm
So sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved grandfather. He and your grandma were two of the kindest souls, and I know your strong family bond stands as a testament to the values they instilled in all of you. Maybe he be at peace reunited with your grandmother. Sending love and hugs to you all.
Nicole, Domenic and Makenzie
November 21, 2022, 6:05 am
We are blessed to know your family. I wasn’t lucky enough to Mr. & Mrs. Menke well but it is obvious how amazing they were just through the family they have raised. Their greatness and accomplishments are undoubtedly evident in their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who are all so wholeheartedly loving, nurturing, caring and selfless individuals. My prayers are with you all and I can only say how thankful I am to have such wonderful people in my life thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Menke. May their greatness continue on as it has through their family.
Joe & Jessica Fahey
November 21, 2022, 11:56 am
Grandpa was a special man! We loved listening to his stories from when he used to play baseball. He loved his children and grandchildren but loved his wife most of all. We are so sorry to know he is no longer with us. Prayers to all of the family as this has been a extremely tough year for losses. We love you all!
Joe and Jessie Fahey