Charles Filipek

Charles Filipek was born on December 29, 1938, in Riga, Michigan to Czechoslovakian immigrants John and Elizabeth Filipek. He enjoyed childhood with sister Mary and brothers Frank, John, Louis, Joseph and surviving brother James. When Charles was a young man, he made a life changing decision to join the United States Marine Corps. All of his brothers served in various branches of the military as well, and Charles was very proud of that family legacy.

During his time as a Marine, Charles valiantly served in the Vietnam War. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he returned home to Michigan where he met his beautiful wife, Judy Ann Hedrick. Charles and Judy were married and started their life together by purchasing a home in Ogden Center. Charles spent much of his free time improving and building additions to their home in order to make room for a growing family. Charles and Judy raised three children in that home: Robin, Keith, and Kellie. All three survive today. Charles and Judy enjoyed 60 years of marriage: a blessed marriage that resulted in nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Charles took immense pride in caring for, protecting and providing for his family.

In the early 1980’s, Charles met his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He realized that he was a sinner and that the only means of forgiveness is through a personal relationship with Jesus. He uttered a simple prayer asking Jesus for forgiveness and expressing his belief in the sacrifice that Jesus made as He willingly spilled His blood and died while hanging on the cross. Charles also acknowledged that Jesus was miraculously resurrected three days later. One of Charles’ favorite passages in the Bible was Romans 10:9,10 which clearly explains the simplicity of this free gift from God. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

Charles’ faith became very real to him on October 19, 2023, as he took his last breath on earth and his first in Heaven. He now enjoys eternal life with his Savior, Jesus Christ. He would desire that everyone reading this consider their need for a relationship with Jesus and pray a simple prayer of confession and belief also. The remains of Charles’ earthly identity were interred at Ogden Cemetery during a private remembrance and celebration of his life on November 4th, 2023, but the eternal Charles now abides and rejoices in his Heavenly home.

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