Final Salute

Charles A. Clemens, age 79, passed away on March 22, 2026. He was born in Kalamazoo on October 29, 1946, the son of the late, L.D. and Elsie (Poland) Clemens. Raised in Kalamazoo, he graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School, Class of 1964. Charles then enlisted in the U.S. Navy, was a Seabee and served three tours of duty in the Vietnam War. After being honorably discharged he returned to make Southwest Michigan his home. He began a long career as a postal carrier, retiring in 1992. He then worked for Gillespie Maintenance. He was a member of the Portage VFW Post 5855 and served as the Post Commander for many years. Charles was kind, loving and generous. He had a passion for woodworking, a gift he shared with others. He also loved to spend time fishing, following Tigers baseball and MSU football. He was an avid reader and collector of WWII books. Above all, Charles was a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His smile, firm handshake and laughter will be missed by all who loved him. On July 25, 1980, he married the love of his life Karen (Kloosterhuis) Clemens who preceded him in passing in 2021. He is survived by five children, Doug Clemens, Jill (Jon) Lutke, Melanie (John Brown) Kolenko, Beth Cronk, Jason Clemens; five grandchildren, Griffin, Karsen, Hope (Coery), Kayla, and Karolynn; great-granddaughter, Stella; siblings, Lawrence “Larry” (Sue) Clemens, Darlene (Grant) Perron, Richard (Sue) Clemens; special aunt, Dorothy Dingman; extended family and friends. He was also preceded in passing by siblings, Lois Clemens, Robert (Karen) Clemens.