Obituary for Charles H. Richards, 85

Charles H. Richards, 85, passed away on July 5, 2026. He was born on July 23, 1940, in Evanston, Illinois, to Harry Richards and Dorothy A. (Robertson) Richards.

Charles married the love of his life, Ellen S. Richards, on April 22, 1978, in Skokie, Illinois. They shared 48 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, companionship, and many adventures.

He was raised in Skokie, Illinois, later lived in the Paddock Lake area of Wisconsin, and eventually made his home in Baudette, Minnesota. Charles attended Niles Township High School and was largely self-taught in drafting, mechanics, and many practical trades, taking great pride in learning new skills throughout his life.

Charles honorably served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve and received an honorable discharge on June 29, 1969.

A gifted craftsman and lifelong learner, Charles enjoyed restoring old boat motors, designing and building stone-cutting machines, flying airplanes, boating, fishing, and spending time with his dogs and cats. He earned his pilot's license after graduating from Sally's Flying School on March 17, 1950, and remained passionate about aviation throughout his life.

He will be remembered for his ingenuity, strong work ethic, curiosity, generosity, and the lasting impact he made on the lives of his family and friends.

Charles is survived by his loving wife Ellen (Nyland) Richards; brothers, Don Richards, George (Pat) Richards; nephew, Dan Richards. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; niece, Laura Richards; aunts, Peggy Robertson, Jean Elaagaen