Charles "Charlie" Kirchner

Charles N. “Charlie” Kirchner, age 77, of Fountain City passed away on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 at the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center. He was born on June 28, 1940 in Winona, MN a son of the late James A. and Harriet L. (Remfry) Kirchner. Charlie attended and graduated from Fountain City High School. He then went on to Winona State University, where he proudly earned his Bachelor’s degree. Following his schooling, Charlie served our country as a member of the United States Army. He served both active duty and in the Army Reserves until his honorable discharge on July 31, 1969. During his duty and commitment to our country, Charlie was united in marriage to Mary Knowles on May 15, 1964 in Lawton, OK. To this union, three children were born. During his school days, Charlie worked for Haueser Brothers Construction out of Fountain City. Following his military service, Charlie began what would be a long and successful career with his father and uncle at the banks they owned both in Fountain City and in Alma. Charlie started working at the bank in Alma and then relocated to the Fountain City Bank serving as Vice President. In 1986, following the death of his dad, Jim, Charlie assumed the position of President of the Fountain City Bank. A position he held until his retirement. He was a lifelong, active and faithful member of St. John’s United Church of Christ, Fountain City serving on church board and was gratified to be a part of the church renovation project. Charlie was a community and civic minded man devoting his time and efforts in many capacities such as a charter member of the Fountain City Rod & Gun Club, C-FC American Legion, Post 56, Lion Club and was an elected member of the C-FC school board. Charlie was a “Jack of all trades” and enjoyed his steam engine. He will be remembered by family, friends and community as a selfless giving man with a heart of gold. His generosity never had conditions because he found the act of giving was so much more gratifying than anything he could ever receive. Charlie is survived by his wife, Mary of Fountain City; children, Shelley (Eric) Johnson of Galesville, Dan (Adrian) Kirchner of Fountain City and Tim (Courtney) Kirchner of La Crosse; grandchildren, Christopher, Kimberlyn and Cole Johnson and Hannah, Jake, and Ellie Kirchner; brother, James (Karen) Kirchner; also by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Besides his parents, Charlie was preceded in death by his infant brother, Charles. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at 1:00 PM at St. John's United Church of Christ with Pastor Gregory Ferriss officiating. Inurnment will follow, with full military honors, at Fountain City Public Cemetery. A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, November 11 from 10:00 AM until the hour of the service at the church.