Charles “Chuck” Panka, passed away, at the age of 60 years, on Wednesday February 18, 2026 unexpectedly while traveling in Da Nang, Vietnam. He was born on May 31, 1965 in Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin. Chuck graduated from Prairie Du Chien High School and attended Blackhawk Technical College in Fennimore, WI. He married Julie on June 4, 1988 and had their family home built in McFarland, WI in 1993. They welcomed their daughter, Katlyn, in 1993 and son, Zack, in 1997. He worked as an appliance tech at Appliance Works for many years. Before retiring, he worked as a maintenance tech at the McFarland School District.

Whether he was hunting, fishing, or simply putzing around at “the Bluff” (his land up north), he found his peace wandering through the woods and watching wildlife. But as much as he loved the outdoors, he was rarely quiet. Known as quite the talker, Chuck cherished his long phone calls with friends, catching up on everything and nothing all at once. Above all, his heart belonged to his family. He was happiest when surrounded by his wife, kids, and grandson, and he was always the first person to show up if someone needed a hand.

Chuck was on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Asia when he passed. He traveled with his friend of 40 years, Ritch Stevenson. He went to Japan, Vietnam, and was looking forward to his trip to Thailand. He sent dozens of pictures back home of his favorite spots, tried new foods he never thought he would, and spent a lot of time with Ritch hiking around, reminiscing about old times and talking about his family and grandson.

Chuck is survived by his wife Julie, kids Katlyn (Randy) Clark and Zack, grandson Henry Clark, mother Marilynn, brothers Mark (Cheryl) and Mike, sister Judy (Steve), and many other relatives and dear friends.

Chuck was preceded in death by his father Robert and brother Bob.

Chuck’s celebration of life will be at a later date.

Cress Funeral Service

5801 Hwy 51, P O Box 150, McFarland, WI 53558

608-838-0655