Charles Michael Imler

Official Obituary of

Charles Michael Imler

December 12, 1954 - July 27, 2026

71 Years Old

Charles Michael Imler (CMI), 71, of South Bend, Indiana passed away on Monday, July

27, 2026 at Ernestine M. Raclin House Center for Hospice Care, after a battle with

pancreatic cancer. He was born on December 12, 1954, in South Bend, Indiana to the

late George and Olga (Schreiner) Imler. Charlie is survived by his son, Jason Imler,and

daughter-in-law, Brittany (Boyle) Imler, of South Bend, Indiana; his daughter Jessica

(Imler) Sisson, and son-in-law, Justin Sisson, of Greenfield, Wisconsin; and two

grandchildren, Evan and Shawn Vonhofmann, of Greenfield, Wisconsin. Charlie was

preceded in death by his father, George Ted Imler, mother, Olga Marie (Schreiner) Imler,

sister Julie Ann (Imler) Wagner, and brother George Ted Imler Jr.. Charlie married

Cynthia Leeser-Imler on July 15, 2025. Together they were blessed to share a

wonderful chapter of life, enjoying family and their beloved pets.

Charles M. Imler had a love for sports starting at the age of five. His favorite teams were

the Los Angeles Rams, Boston Red Sox, and New York Knicks. He was a natural

athlete who played football for Holy Cross Catholic School and LaSalle High School as

a tight end. He graduated from LaSalle High School in 1974. He played for the Miami

Dolphins practice squad in 1977. After athletic injuries ended his football career, he

pursued and completed an apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of

Electrical Workers on January 1983. He continued his education in the electrical field

while working for Koontz-Wagner Company and the City of Niles Utility Company.

He was instrumental in managing upgrades to utility stations, substations, and

transformers. Throughout his career, Charlie worked both as a lineman and program

manager. Charles also had a passion for music and had a DJ business, providing music

and entertainment for weddings and other special events. He was also a co-owner of a

gun shop in Niles, Michigan.

Charlie’s greatest passion was his love for dogs. They provided him with unwavering

companionship and unconditional loyalty throughout his life. His beloved Belgian

Shepherd, Dexter, faithfully remained by his side until the end. Dexter truly was one in a

million and will forever be remembered as Charlie’s loyal companion. Rest easy,

Charlie.

Donations can be made to: St. Joseph County Humane Society,

2506 Grape Rd., Mishawaka, IN 46545. (574) 255-4726

In accordance with Charles’ wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral services.Kaniewski Funeral Home, South Bend, IN is entrusted with his arrangements.

The family would like to thank the Ernestine M. Raclin House, Center for Hospice Care

for the exceptional care they provided to our beloved Charlie.

Online condolences may be sent to www.kaniewski.com

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