Cover photo for Charles "Chuck" Stumpf's Obituary
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Charles "Chuck" Stumpf

December 8, 1931 — February 1, 2025

Madison

Charles “Chuck” Brintin Stumpf passed away on February 1, 2025, after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and song. He was born on December 8, 1931, to Charles “Charlie” and Marianna Stumpf in Peoria, Illinois. Chuck’s life was one of deep commitment—to his family, his faith, his community, and his many passions.

Chuck graduated from Madison West High School in 1950 and went on to earn his BBA degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1954. During his time at UW-Madison, he was a proud member of the Chi Phi fraternity and participated in ROTC, which led him to serve in the U.S. Army in Korea during the post-Korean War period.

In July of 1955, Chuck married the love of his life, Diane, beginning a partnership filled with devotion, adventure, and joy. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with three wonderful children: Cathie, Andy and Gail.

Upon returning from military service in 1956, Chuck joined his father in the insurance business in Madison, Wisconsin, representing Illinois Mutual and eventually established CB Stumpf Agency. He earned his CLU and ChFC designations. Overtime he associated with Principal Financial and the Wisconsin Association of Life Underwriters (WALU) as executive vice president. He retired in 1992.

Chuck’s dedication to his community was evident in everything he did. He was actively involved in the Jaycees, served in various leadership roles at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, and gave his time to organizations such as the Red Cross board, Oakwood boards, and Madison West Kiwanis Club Foundation, which he helped establish. Chuck was a man of deep generosity, donating over 26 gallons of blood to the Red Cross over the years. He believed in giving freely—of his time, talents, and kindness.

He was a member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association, the Madison Convertible Club, Friendship Force, and the Madison Ski Club.

Music was woven into the fabric of Chuck’s life. From his high school days to singing in choir at Mount Olive Lutheran Church for well over 65 years, the Lakeview Chorale, and the Madison Philharmonic Chorus, his rich voice was a gift to all who heard it. He also loved playing folk songs on his guitar, sharing melodies with anyone willing to listen. He enjoyed attending musicals and the symphony.

The family enjoyed camping and canoeing as well as trips north, south, east and west with stops in between. He was blessed to be able to travel to all 50 states and over 30 countries. Many of these trips included skiing, SCUBA diving, ocean and river cruises, and cross-country train trips. Chuck was always up for an adventure.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Diane; his devoted daughters, Cathie (Mike) Locke and Gail (John) Watts; his cherished grandchildren: Adam (Shelly) Ehlert, Ashley (Ryan) Skenandore, Johnny (Megan) Watts, and Charlie (Adrienne) Watts; and six great-grandchildren.

Chuck was preceded in death by his beloved son, Andy; his son-in-law, Bob Ehlert; his granddaughter, Heidi; his sisters, Jennie Johnson and Mary Mitchell; and his sister in-law Louise Oakes and brother in-law Ray Kaercher.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, beginning at 10:00am at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 110 N. Whitney Way, Madison, followed by a service at noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Mount Olive Lutheran Church; Madison West Kiwanis Foundation, 5605 Westbury Pl, Madison, WI 53711; or Attic Angel Association, 640 Junction Rd, Madison, WI 53717.

Rest in peace, Chuck. Your song continues in our hearts.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434

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