Charles Edward Bristow

Charles Bristow, 89, of Harbor Springs, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, surrounded by family at Bay Bluffs Medical Care Facility.

Charlie was born in Detroit's Corktown neighborhood, where old Tiger Stadium once stood. A lifelong Detroit Tigers fan, he often attended games by taking advantage of the gates opening after the seventh inning. On a few occasions, he even helped friends sweep the infield during the seventh-inning stretch.

Immediately after high school, Charlie served two years in the United States Air Force. Stationed in South Korea, he worked as an aircraft mechanic and discovered his natural talent for working with his hands. After returning home, he built a successful career as a skilled tradesman, installing and maintaining heating and cooling systems. Over the next 25 years, he worked on both commercial and residential equipment while also developing expertise in plumbing and electrical work.

Eventually, Charlie served as the general contractor for three homes that he built himself. His lifelong dream was to live on a few wooded acres with no neighbors in sight. In 2004, he fulfilled that dream by constructing his home just north of Harbor Springs.

During retirement, Charlie developed a passion for woodworking. He handcrafted numerous pieces of furniture, including benches and lamps. Among his most distinctive creations were small table lamps cleverly shaped like antique water hand pumps. His masterpiece was an Alaskan trapper cabin that he built in his backyard. It was a small but fully functioning building, complete with built-in furniture, electricity, and a wood-burning stove.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Rosemary; his children, Chuck (Kelly) Bristow, Lena (John) Trolz, Tracey (Jeremy) Cowley, and Sue Bristow; his stepchildren, Evan Morgan, Andy Morgan, and Mary (Brian) Daily; as well as several grandchildren, including Katie, Allison, Emily Bristow, Hannah, Daniel, Jacob, Emily Morgan, Andrew, Matt, Desiree, Troy, Eric, and Kyle. He is also survived by his faithful cat and companion, Mischief.

Charlie was a generous supporter of many charitable organizations, especially those serving children in need. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in his memory may be made to Catholic Relief Services or the Manna Food Project, which serves residents of Harbor Springs.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, October 1, 2026, 11:00 AM at Holy Childhood of Jesus Catholic Church, 150 W. Main Street, Harbor Springs, Michigan. A light luncheon in the church reception hall will immediately follow the Mass.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.