Charles Williamson Gander

Charles “Chuck” Gander died on Friday, November 22, 2024, after a long battle with cancer. Chuck was born on March 3, 1943 to Charles J. and Jean D. (Williamson) Gander. He grew up in Hudson, WI, where he graduated from Hudson High School in 1961. Determined to get a college education, he worked in his aunt and uncle’s pharmacy (Micklesen Drugs) in Hudson and was able to put himself through the University of Wisconsin River Falls where he majored in history and psychology, obtaining his degree in 1967. He returned to complete his MA degree in History in 1970. In 1977, he received an MS in Psychology from Pittsburg State University in Kansas.

Chuck married the love of his life, Constance "Connie" Checklund on July 8, 1967, in Hudson. They made their home in Willmar and Spicer, MN, having lived on Green Lake in Spicer for 25 years. An avid fisherman, he enjoyed year around fishing from his boat or ice house, hunting, boating and reading American History and Physics for the lay person.

Chuck retired in 2003 after a 31 year career at Willmar Community College/Ridgewater College as a Psychology Instructor. He was president of the Faculty Association for several terms, served as representative to the MEA Delegate Assembly and the Faculty Board of Directors.

He is preceded in death by his son, Kenneth (1984-2000); and parents. He is survived by his wife, Connie; his siblings, Robert J. Gander of Mesa, AZ; Mary J. (Mike) Bruder of Winona, MN; John L. (Karen) Gander of Fenimore, WI; Edmund J. Gander of Willmar, MN; and Richard W. (Karolyn) Gander of Reno, NV; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Interment will be at Our Lady of the Lakes Cemetery in Spicer, MN, with a graveside service to take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to CentraCare Hospice.   Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson & Johnson Funeral Homes, www.hafh.org.

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