Charles Howard "Chuck" Chase Obituary

On Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, Charles "Chuck" Howard Chase passed away in Grand Rapids. He was born on Feb. 22, 1954 in Jackson, to William and Rose Chase. He graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1972, received his bachelor's and master's degrees in education from Michigan State University and administrative license from the University of Dayton in Ohio.

Chuck was an educator for 33 years. He taught for seven years in the Battle Creek area as well as in Lima, Ohio. He served as a K-8 principal in the Glen Lake Community Schools for three years where he supervised the development of Glen Lake's first written curriculum. He then served as an elementary and middle school principal in the Traverse City Area Public Schools for 17 years. His last years in education were spent as the school superintendent in Marion Public Schools. During his career and well into his retirement, Chuck served as an adjunct professor for Grand Valley State University, teaching diversity and
classroom management courses to future educators.

Among his many accomplishments, Chuck received the Outstanding Educator of the Year Award, earned the Distinguished Administrator Award from Michigan Association of School Administrators, served as Traverse City Administrators Association President, helped implement Susan Kovalik's Integrated Thematic Instruction (ITI) and supervised the At Risk and Drug Free Schools Grants. At the core of his work, Chuck found the most satisfaction working with students and helping them succeed.

Beyond his educational achievements, Chuck's greatest joy was being with his family and restoring classic cars. His strong, positive support, guidance, influence and wonderful sense of humor will always be deeply missed.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Kim (Mawdsley) Chase; son, Anthony; son, Charles (Sarah Fader Chase); daughter, Elizabeth; grandsons, Christopher and Vincent; brothers, William and Thomas; two nephews and a niece.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother.

A private celebration of his life is being planned by his family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to a charity close to your heart in his honor. Personal messages in memory of Chuck may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com