Charles Roger Page

Charles Roger Page of Eaton Rapids went to be with the Lord, May 13, 2023. Charles (Charlie) was born in Eaton Rapids, MI on September 9, 1929, to Harry and Lydia (Jacox) Page. He met the love of his life, Cecelia Ann Riegel, while they both attended Eaton Rapids High School. They had 67 years of a loving marriage from their wedding in 1950 until Cecelia’s passing in 2017. Charlie started his construction career as a water boy in 1950 with the Christman Company and worked his way up through the ranks as timekeeper, foreman, superintendent, general superintendent, construction manager, and finally, treasurer of the board of directors. He managed construction of many buildings for Michigan State University, including dorms, school buildings, the power plant, and the Breslin Center where the Spartan basketball team plays. Charlie also managed construction of several landmark buildings in Lansing, including the State of Michigan Capital Complex, renovations of the Capital, and built the Board of Water and Light, Auto Owners main office, the Accident Fund, and much more. He retired from the Christman Company at age 62 in 1992. During his retirement years, he volunteered his construction expertise as construction manager for nonprofits, including the Red Cross and Capital Area Humane Society and as a paid oversite position (Clerk of the Works) for large multi-school building projects for Eaton Rapids and Charlotte schools.
Charlie and Cecelia opened their home to 28 people over the years, many who needed a safe haven. They were also active members of the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids. Charlie was very supportive and giving to family, church, and others. He leaves a large hole in the family with his passing but has more than earned his peace.
He is survived by one brother, Lynn Page; daughter, Loann Snell; sons, Tom (Linda) Page, Gene (Kelli) Page, and Dan (Sue) Page; brother-in-law, Taylor and (Marcia Carr) Riegel; 13 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. Charlie was preceded in death by his wife Cecelia, and two younger brothers, Ward, and Walter.
Memorial services will take place 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20, 2023, at the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids, 600 S. Main St., Eaton Rapids. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the First United Methodist Church, or the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Rd., Lansing, MI 48906. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.