Charles J. Anderson, age 98, of Crystal, Michigan, formerly of Holt, Michigan, passed away Thursday, April 23, 2026 from accidental injuries received in a fall while working on his seawall at home. The son of Gladys Esther (Shesley) & Charles J. Anderson, Sr., he was born on August 17, 1927 in Hamlin Township, Eaton County, Michigan and was raised in Mason, Michigan.

After graduating high school, Charlie enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17 (with his parents’ permission) and was a proud veteran of World War II. He served aboard the U.S.S. Yellowstone, attained the rank of Seaman First Class, and was awarded the American Area Theater Ribbon, the Asiatic Pacific Area Theater Ribbon, and the World War II Victory Medal.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, he began a 30 year career with General Motor’s Fisher Body Division in Lansing, retiring as a supervisor. He met his future wife, Wanda Juanita Fritz, while working at Fisher Body. They married on January 29, 1948, and together they raised two children and enjoyed 25 years of marriage until Wanda passed away in 1973. As a family, the Anderson’s delighted in weekends and summers spent at Crystal Lake, especially with their children, grandson, great-grandchildren, and other family and friends. Charlie was especially proud of his only grandchild and delighted in seeing Chad’s accomplishments in his education, career, and family.

He had a life-long love of automobiles and motor sports, including NASCAR and Indy car racing and was a champion motorcross and snowmobile competitive rider. In addition to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Charlie had been a member of the Eagles Lodge in Lansing, and the Elks Lodge in Alma. Charlie loved music and dancing and often organized dances and booked the bands for the lodge social dances.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Wanda J. Anderson; a brother, Russell Anderson; three sisters, Joyce Pollock, Mary Dovey, and Rachel Howe; and his son, Charles J. "Andy" Anderson III on November 14, 2023, who also shared Charlie’s passion for all things automotive.

Surviving are his daughter and son-in-law, Tami Reyher & Al Stoolmaker of Grand Ledge; a daughter-in-law, Linda Anderson of Ashley; grandson, Chad & Amy Reyher of Haslett; two great-grandchildren, Reese Reyner and Ryan Reyher; his companion and dance partner of the last 32 years, Carole Jewell of Greenville (whom he met at a singles dance); and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

Private graveside committal services, with military honors rendered by the U.S. Navy, will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Entrican.

Instead of flowers, Charlie would have appreciated contributions in his memory to the Montcalm County Commission on Aging or your local food pantry.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Charlie’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638.