Charles W.E. Garrison

Charles William Edward Garrison, age 69 died Sunday August 13, 2017 at St. John Macomb Hospital in Warren, Michigan surrounded by his loving family. Charles was born November 1, 1947 in Dearborn, Michigan the son of the late Edward Charles Garrison and the late Virginia L. (nee: Knapp) Garrison. He was predeceased by his brother Robert Garrison, and sister Carol Garrison.

In his young years Charles was raised and attended school in Roseville, Michigan and also in Joshua Tree, California. While in high school Charles excelled at baseball and was even scouted by professional teams.

Following his schooling he enlisted in the United States Army April 18, 1967. In the same year he entered the military, Charles met his future wife, Linda at a McDonald's restaurant. The young couple began a lasting love affair, marrying on December 9, 1969. Charles was loved and embraced by Linda's large Italian family.

During his military service Charles was selected for EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) where he would eventually achieve his expert badge. Additionally, during the Presidential elections, Charles worked with the Secret Service with the election detail.

Following his military service Charles returned home to Michigan moving into the burgeoning community of Roseville, Michigan where he and Linda would settle and raise their family. Mr. Garrison was employed at Sears for 27 years, and later for Bon Secours Home Medical Division until he retired at the age of 62.

While raising his children, Mr. Garrison was a devoted father who enjoyed riding his motorcycles, tending to his home, and playing softball over the years with many different leagues. He loved going to his children and grandkids sports, activities and events and truly enjoyed the Christmas Holiday decorating the Christmas tree while listening to Andy Williams sing Christmas tunes. His family remembers Charles as a wonderful family man who could grill just about anything on the BBQ.

Charles was an active member of the Roseclair Eagles 2895, the American Legion, and the Moose Club. He was an avid sports fan who could be found watching the Detroit Lions and Tigers. Additionally he was a University of Michigan fan even though his wife was a Michigan State Spartan fan with their house divided.

When Charles had quiet and down time, he was usually reading the newspaper checking the sports scores or going to the movie theater. His favorite movies were Animal House and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. After the children were grown Charles and Linda traveled to Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland and France. The couple also traveled during the winter months as snowbirds for the past three years to Fort Meyers Beach, Florida.

Charles is survived by his cherished wife of almost 48 years, Linda (nee: Zannetti) Garrison, and his dear children, Jennifer (Mark ) Baldes, Kerrie (Kirk)Williamson, and Kirk Garrison. Also, he was the loving grandfather of Autumn, Brittany, Markie, Bryce, Anthony, Nick, Giana, Nina and Lizzie. Further surviving is his sister Bonnie Garrison and his nephew Paul Sockness. He was the brother in-law to Steve Zannetti, Michael and Terri Zannetti, Matt and Debbie Makowski and Paul and Vicki Zannetti, and his late in-laws, Stephen and Mae Zannetti. He also is survived by many nieces, nephews, dear friends, and his grand-dog Buca.

Mr. Garrison will be inurned on Friday 10am, August 18, 2017 at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly Michigan with full Military Honors. Following will be a Celebration of Life and Memorial for Mr. Garrison will be held Friday 2-9pm at the Roseclair Eagles 2895, located at 29500 Little Mack Ave, Roseville, MI 48066.

Please share memories of Mr. Garrison at his memory book above.