Obituary of Charlie Dorner

"UPDATE:  ALL VISITATION AND FUNERAL SPOTS HAVE BEEN FILLED FOR CHARLES DORNER"

Peacefully, surrounded by his family, Charles “Charlie” Dorner, age 91, of Chatham.  Born in Gilvach, Hungary in 1928, son of the late Elizabeth (Pfefferkorn) and George Dorner.  Beloved husband of the late Lucille (Tremblay) Dorner (1996). 

Loving father of Charles (Brenda) Dorner, Richard (Linda) Dorner, Gloria Dorner, Michael (Julie) Dorner, Gerald Dorner and the late Vicki Cerda (2007).  Forever remembered by several grandchildren, great grandchildren and 0ne great great granddaughter.  Dear brother of Mary Kearns and Elizabeth Dorner.  Honoured Godfather to Lori Arnold, Belinda Keith, Charlie Payne. Charles will also be missed by several nieces and nephews.  Predeceased by his brothers John (Margaret), Steve and George Dorner (Rose), brother-in-law Phil Kearns and grandson Waylon Dorner (2012).

Proud owner, operator, driver, trainer, teacher, mentor and the man who “got things done” at Dorner Transport Co. for more than 50 years. A man who didn't tell you how to do it, but showed you. He lead by example and was true to his word. Always keeping busy but quick to fix a strangers car or take a neighborhood kid for a ride in the “big truck” and do it with a smile.

In 1944 Charlie started selling Christmas trees and soon earned the nick name “Christmas Tree Charlie”. After years of learning about trees he started his own farm. He'd spend summers pruning and shaping so he could spend his winter selling and telling stories. His eyes would light up when he recognized customers and you knew he had a story brewing.

Charlie was very involved in the community through years of sponsoring adult and youth sports. There's something to be said about seeing your family company logo on the back of a little girls jersey as she slides into home or on the tshirt of a country singer on stage.

Honorary “Grampa Dorner” to family friends, Charlie or Charles to others and “The Legend” to most.

Friends and relatives may visit at Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham where visitation will be held on Tuesday August 25, 2020 from 3-7 pm.  

Funeral Service will be conducted in Blessed Sacrament Church on Wednesday August 26, 2020 at 10 am.  

Those hoping to attend the visitation and/or funeral are required to register their attendance online at www.signup.com/go/BRRArkz  or by calling the funeral home (519-352-5120). 

It is mandated that all those in attendance must wear a mask.  

Donations to Victorian Order of Nurses would be appreciated.

Click here to see a YouTube video of Charlie discussing first day in Canada

Click here to see a You Tube Video of Charlie discussing Driving to school in Grade 8

Click here to see a You Tube Video of Charlie discussing Education, Business and Life