Charles E. Baumstark, 94, Hermann, passed away into eternal rest Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025 at his childhood home with family at his side.
He was born June 2, 1931, the youngest son of Albert and Melitta (Schuch) Baumstark in Jefferson City.
He was a lifelong, third generation Hermann resident.
Charles was united in marriage to Verniel Jane Heying July 12, 1951, at St. Joseph Church in Rhineland. Together they had five children and shared 65 wonderful years of marriage. Verniel preceded him in death Sept. 6, 2016.
Charles was 12 years old when he started his employment under his father’s direction at Hermann Lumber Company. He successfully built the company which is now in its 103rd year. He was a dedicated businessman and a strong community leader whose commitment to Hermann ran deep.
Charles served as a city alderman in his younger years, was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and held the president title for both the Hermann JC’s and Lions Club.
A faithful member of St. George Catholic Church, Charles also served on the Parish Council and various committees.
His accomplishments included co-founding the Loutre Shore Country Club, charter membership in the Iowa Pheasant Hunting Club, membership in the Frene Investment Club, and serving in various capacities within several regional lumbermen’s associations.
He was an avid and gifted woodworker, creating over 600 beautiful crosses that he lovingly shared with friends, family, and through charitable auctions. Golf, travel, bowling and boating were among his favorite pastimes and he was blessed to share these activities with family and friends.
Charles was preceded in death by wife,Verniel; parents, Albert and Melitta; son, Don Baumstark; and siblings, Albert Baumstark, Loyola “Mutzie” Schramm and Emil Baumstark.
He is survived by children, Diane Huxol and wife Bruce of Blue Springs,Daniel Baumstark and wife Ruth of Hermann, Denis Baumstark and wife Kathy of Hermann and Donna Sue Kennison and husband Russell of Moberly; grandchildren, Jennifer Morgan, Bradley Huxol, Lauren Norris, Megan Stiers, Rachel Korman, Jamie Epple, Chelsea Rohlfing, Renee Miller, Theresa Whittler, Maura Noelker, Charles Baumstark, Jeffrey Baumstark, Gina Carlson, Amy Sly and Brian Kennison; 38 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Charles embodied the true meaning of service, always putting the needs of others before his own. His motto was always “How can I help?”
A funeral Mass was held Tuesday, Dec. 9, at St. George Church in Hermann, with Father Philip Niekamp officiating. Interment was in St. George Cemetery.
Memorial contributions suggested to St. George Church, St. George School or Hermann Hospital.
Arrangements entrusted to Toedtmann & Grosse Funeral Home in Hermann.
