Charles "Charlie" D. Droege, 94, passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side on Monday, August 30, 2021.

 

Charlie was born July 9, 1927 in La Porte, Indiana, to Alvin and Henrietta (Sallwasser) Droege.

 

On January 1, 1956 in La Porte, he happily married Peggy E. Birkholz.

 

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Peggy; his beloved daughters, Linda Droege of La Porte, Marilyn Droege of Indianapolis, and Sara Droege of New Buffalo, Michigan; in-laws, Tom and Marilyn Boyd; nieces and nephews, Jean Knickerbocker, Phil Droege, Julie Marshall, Jane Dufek, Mike, David and Gay Lyn Birkholz, Rob, Susan and John Boyd; and special family member, Patty Sallwasser Warner.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, John and Richard Droege; brothers-in-law, Robert Birkholz and Hank (Sue) Birkholz; and nephew, Christopher Birkholz.

 

In 1952, Charlie and his brothers assumed the management of their father's men's clothing business, "Droege's", which he established in 1916.  Later, his nephew, Phil Droege purchased the business and sold it in 2001.  In retirement, Charlie became a volunteer at La Porte Hospital which evolved into a second career.  He greatly enjoyed that association for 25 years.

 

He and Peggy traveled our country extensively and particularly enjoyed several trips to Europe.  His second love was attending concerts and if it was a symphony concert, so much the better.

 

He was an United States Army Veteran having served in Korea.   

 

He was a caring and loving husband and father and a good friend to many.

 

At his request, there will be no funeral.

 

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. 

 

Memorial contributions may be directed to the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra, P.O. Box 563, La Porte, IN  46350.

 

Condolences may also be shared online at www.cutlercares.com