Chuck Wann
January 25, 1946 - March 17, 2023
Eugene Charles “Chuck” Wann, 77, of New Prague, passed away Friday, March 17, 2023, in Fort Myers, FL. Chuck was born on January 25, 1946 in New Prague, to Eugene C. and Lois (Suel) Wann. He attended St. Wenceslaus School and was a 1964 graduate of New Prague High School. After attending the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul, he graduated from Mankato State University. On February 10,1968, he was married to Barbara (Franz) Wann in New Prague. They had two children. He later married Janis (Bethke) Wann on August 20, 1995, in New Prague.
In 1969 Chuck began his career at The New Prague Times/Suel Printing Co. as Advertising Manager. Working closely with his grandfather Arthur J. Suel, he later succeeded him as publisher. A former president of the Minnesota Newspaper Association (MNA), he was also a member of the MNA Half Century Club.
He was a member of the Third Degree Knights of Columbus, New Prague Chamber of Commerce, New Prague Opportunities, New Prague Jaycees, New Prague Ambulance Service, and served as president of the New Prague Utilities Commission, along with numerous other clubs and organization.
One of his favorite pastimes was riding on his lawnmower or just “putzing” at his Mille Lacs cabin. Whether it was teaching a grandchild how to water ski, fishing on Mille Lacs, or hanging out with them, Chuck was a favorite with his grandchildren. Family always took center stage. The room lit up when Chuck entered. His positive energy and commanding voice announced the gathering was about to get lighter! Always ready with a joke or quip, Chuck infused it with laughter. His jovial personality and ready smile won him many friends, not only in New Prague, but wherever he went. He was kind, welcoming, and non-judgmental and the twinkle that lit up his eyes and the smile that was his signature will be sorely missed by the family and friends that loved him.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Janis, children David (Pamela) Wann of Chanhassen, Lori (Steve) Meloche, of Bloomington, Jeremy (Michelle) Bethke, of Baraboo, WI, Jesse (Lisa) Bethke, of Cannon Falls. Grandchildren Eric and Taylor Wann, Alan Brown, Jameson Bethke, Kaitlin (Reijo) Wahlin, Nikole (Donald) Hetrick, and James (special friend Brittany Dahlen) Webster. Great-grandchildren Peter, Lincoln, Charlie, Dakota and Hank. Brother Arthur S. (Ann) Wann. Sisters-in-law Jacquelyn (James) Bartz, Joyce (Neal) Hinkel and Joni (Jon) Zehnder. Numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Funeral Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held Friday, April 28, 2023 at 10 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Eugene Theisen officiating. Chuck's service will be live-streamed on npcatholic.org. Visitation will take place Thursday from 4-7 PM and Friday morning from 7:30 - 9:30 at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery. Lunch will be served at the New Prague Golf Club.
Memorials preferred to the American Heart Association, the Minnesota Newspaper Foundation or St. Wenceslaus School.
Jan and family, My sincere condolences on your loss of Chuck. He always put a smile on our faces at the dental clinic and made the day brighter. I’m sure many will miss him. May your fond memories of your husband, father and grandfather give you comfort.
Jan, my condolences to you and your family on Chucks passing. It has been many years since we have seen each other but have great memories of both of you. Always fun to see Chuck at the fair in the old print shop!! Not able to make the memorial, I will be out of town.
Thoughts and prayers
Roger Olson
Jan, David, Lori, Jeremy, Jesse, and families, Our deepest sympathies to all of you. Chuck was always so full of fun and good humor. So many great memories of all the parties out at Gene & Lois’ in the summer. He was a great asset to the newspaper and to the community and will be greatly missed. Keeping you and yours in our thoughts and prayers.
Jan,
We are so saddened to hear of Chuck’s passing. We will miss his smile and Ray of Sunshine every time we would see him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. May the Lord’s comfort surround you and your family.
Jeff & Julie Meyer
A wonderful and fun loving guy. Rest in Peace Chuck Wann!❤️
Dave, Lori and Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. I have so many great memories being at your house with your family growing up. Learning to water sky behind your boat for the first time, being pulled on the toboggan behind your snowmobile, swimming off your float, playing on the beach and so on. Great times, thank you Chuck, Barb, Dave, and Lori for all the fun.
God bless,
John
Jan,
Sending you and your family thoughts and prayers with the passing of Chuck. He always brightened our day when he came in to see us. May your memories warm your heart and bring a smile to your face as time goes by.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Deb, Roxie, and Norma
I am so sorry to hear this. Chuck was a great, fun loving man. Please keep your memories of your life with him close to your heart. Cherish those memories.
My Deepest Condolences to all of his loving family! He was a wonderful person! So kind, intelligent and funny. His smile was amazing and laugh filled a room with happiness. Lost too early as he was just getting to spend more time with family and relaxing. He will be missed tremendously!