Charlene Ann ‘Char’ Trupke

Charlene Ann “Char” Trupke, age 79, a resident of the Town of Liberty, peacefully passed on June 3, 2025 ,at Sharon S. Richardson Hospice in Sheboygan Falls.

Char was born on Feb. 5, 1946, in St. Croix Falls, Wis., to the late Myron and Doris (Nichols) Johansen. 

She graduated from Port Washington High School with the Class of 1964. While attending the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse, Charlie met her “knight in shining armor,” Wayne. On Oct. 29, 1966, they were married in Port Washington.  Together, they built a beautiful life over 58 years of marriage, filled with love, adventure and unwavering support for one another. They raised two sons, Tim (Jennifer) and Wade. Char found immense joy in her role as a grandmother to Tim and Jennifer’s children, Tyler and Natalie, treasuring every moment spent with them.

She is survived by her brother Gerry Johansen of Port Washington, Wis., and was preceded in death by her parents Myron and Doris Johansen. 

A gifted knitter and cross-stitcher, Char spent her life creating beautiful pieces that she generously shared with others. 

As the devoted wife of a Valders High School teacher and coach, Char was a fixture at wrestling, track and field and cross-country events for decades. Her sharp math skills and organizational prowess made her an indispensable scorer for wrestling and track meets, while her enthusiastic presence cheered on athletes and strengthened the community she loved.

In retirement, Char continued to give back, volunteering at Holy Family Hospital, where her natural gift for conversation turned strangers into friends. Her warmth and compassion made hospital stays more bearable for patients and staff alike, proving that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Char’s life was a masterpiece of kindness, creativity and connection. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know her, but her legacy of love and generosity will live on in the countless lives she touched. 

The family will greet relatives and friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home in Manitowoc. Cremation will take place at Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel at a later date. 

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in Char’s name to Stepping Stones Farms School of Horsemanship in Franskville, Wis.

Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc, is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.