Return to Station Listings
|
Charlotte G. Straight (Balars)
Born: 7/18/1939
Died: 3/5/2026
Age: 86
Community: Celebration of Life will be at the American Legion Post 294, Swartz Creek, MI
|
Charlotte G. Straight, 86, of Onekama, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2026. She was born July 18, 1939, in Flint, the daughter of Alfred and Dortha (Cannon) Hoose.
Charlotte graduated from Oscoda High School in 1957. Following graduation, she married William "Bill" Dingman and worked alongside him at his tool and die shop, where she learned how to weld. Together they welcomed two daughters, Cheryl and Linda.
After they later parted ways, Charlotte met Jim Balars in 1969, and the two married in 1970. During that time, she worked at RCA and later served as an assistant manager and controller for the Genesee County Clerk's Office. Charlotte and Jim welcomed their son, Jamie Balars.
On September 22, 1995, Charlotte Gay married Jon B. Straight at Chapel L'Amour in Las Vegas. Together they shared 30 loving years filled with laughter, family, and adventure.
Charlotte also served as an assistant manager and accountant at Portage Point Inn in Onekama. During her many years there, she especially cherished the beautiful sunrises she was able to watch each morning.
Charlotte loved life on the water and spent countless days boating on Portage Lake and Lake Michigan. She also enjoyed working as a hairdresser and even obtained her pilot's license, reflecting her adventurous spirit. In her younger years, Charlotte lived in Greenbush, where she helped her parents run the family resort.
Some of Charlotte's favorite moments were spent gathered around a bonfire with family and friends, singing, dancing, and playing euchre and cribbage. She took great pride in her Christmas village and loved making her famous homemade noodles with her grandchildren.
Charlotte had a wonderful sense of humor, often with a touch of playful spice. Her heart was so full of love that everyone around her could feel it. For every special occasion, she went all out without hesitation, bringing joy and celebration wherever she went.
She had an energy that was electric and contagious. To Charlotte, friends were family, and if you were lucky enough to be her friend, you already knew you were part of that family.
Charlotte's legacy lives on in the laughter of her family, the traditions she nurtured, and the love she so generously shared. Her spirit will continue to guide us, reminding us to celebrate every moment, cherish every bond, and keep her love alive in our hearts.
Charlotte is survived by: her husband, Jon B. Straight; her children, Cheryl (Darryl) Walter, Linda Proffer-Halas, Jamie (Laura) Balars, Chris (Missy) Straight, Raquel Straight, and Angelina (Dave) Lopez; her grandchildren, Suzanne, Christine, David, J.R., and Chandler; eight step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Charlotte was preceded in death by: her parent, Alfred and Dortha Hoose; sisters, Donna May and Phylis Fay; brother, William Ray; and son-in-law, Randall Halas.
From lake sunrises to bonfire nights, Charlotte lived life with a full heart, and that love will carry on through every life she touched.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM, Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the American Legion Post 294,
3440 Morrish Rd, Swartz Creek, MI 48473.
Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Manistee, is in charge of arrangements.
www.oakgrovefh.com
|
Copyright © 2026 Direct Obits, LLC
| Visitation |
| Date: |
|
3/11/2026 |
| Time: |
|
- |
|
|
|
|
Return to Station Listings
|
|
