Charles Puerling, 98, of the Harbor Club, Port Washington died Saturday Feb 28, 2004 at his residence. He was born on August 1, 1905, in Milwaukee, WI. He was the son of Simon G. and Mary Mueller Puerling.
On June 28, 1932 he married Helen Fieber of Saukville, WI at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Port Washington. She preceded him in death on February 16, 1979. As a young man, Charlie worked at the former Port Washington Chair factory from 1937 until it closed in 1954. He later worked at the former Kwik Mix Company in Port Washington, but within two years was offered a job at the former Bolens Manufacturing plant. There he stayed as a machinist until his retirement in 1971.
He was a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace workers Local 1430 and very active in the Catholic Order of Foresters achieving the Legion Of Honor for his involvement of over 75 years. After his wife died, he became active in the local St. Vincent DePaul store. In his 80’s he drove truck and helped around the store. While there he met Catherine Yankunas and their friendship continued for almost the next 20 years. They enjoyed each others company with dinner and dancing at such places as Johnsonville and Adell. She died in June, 2002.
Charlie is survived by his dear friend Ann (Bill) Mikyska, many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. He is also preceded in death by sisters Marie Goeden, Margaret Thill, Johanna Mueller and his brothers Nicholas, Simon and Peter Puerling.
Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 7PM Wed. March 3 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 430 N. Johnson Street, Port Washington. Reverend Allan Sommer will be the celebrant. Cremation will follow with final interment in the parish cemetery. Visitation will held AT CHURCH from 5 – 7 PM Wednesday.