Charles M. Ego, “Chuck”

Passed away peacefully, Monday, October 28, 2013, of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Age 63. Beloved husband of Marlene (nee Karides). Proud father of Tiffany (Brian). Adoring grandfather to Charles. Survived by father, Charles, sisters Barbara and Geraldine (David), brother-in-law Steven (Julia) Karides, nieces Jennifer, Katherine, Krista, and Stephanie, and nephew Joseph. Further survived by mother-in-law Toula Karides and his beautiful grand-niece Annalise. Chuck was preceded in death by his mother Frances and father-in-law Peter. Loved by many other relatives and friends.

Chuck was fiercely independent, intelligent, creative, and held high standards; making friends wherever he went, respected and admired by colleagues, and adored by family. Chuck loved to travel, visiting all 50 states, many countries in Europe, and parts of Asia. His favorite spot was Death Valley due to its diversity. The surroundings made him feel humbled and gave him feelings of spirituality. He was an avid Formula 1 racing fan as well as a Packers and Vikings fan (only because of his home state of Minnesota). Chuck met his wife while in college, an unusual situation because of their differing majors: chemistry (Chuck) and music (Marlene). The lab and practice requirements left little time for socializing, but they managed and on June 25, 1972 they married. They remained devoted to each other for over 41 years. Learning from each other, they both grew and broadened themselves. He was her rock during her difficult times, and she was his, especially when he became ill. Together they built a stable family, they had one daughter of whom they were very proud. When she married, her husband quickly became a true member of the family. Chuck did have one regret however and that was when his grandson was born he knew he would not be there to watch him grow. The expression, "lost his battle with ALS" is something Chuck disagreed with, as he astutely pointed out that, "One does not battle ALS, one tolerates it." And he did, facing his disease with courage, patience, and humor. Never angry with the hand he was dealt, Chuck welcomed and appreciated all the visits from friends and family. He had us all laughing even when he could no longer speak.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Lawlis-Horizon Hospice in Mequon for the phenomenal devotion, care, patience, and love they gave to Chuck during his 10-month stay. Additional thank you to the ALS team at Froedtert Neurology for their continued guidance.

Visitation at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capital Drive, Brookfield, Friday, November 1, 4:00-7:30 PM. Trisagion Service at 7:00 PM, Father Angelo Artemis, Presiding. Funeral Service will be held at ANNUNCIATION GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH, 9400 West Congress Street, Milwaukee, Saturday, 9:30 AM. Visitation at 9:00 AM. Memorials can be made in Chuck's name to the ALS Association of Wisconsin or Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church.