Charles William Staiger's Obituary
Charles William Staiger died peacefully on March 2, 2024, a few weeks short of his ninetieth birthday. He was born in Port Huron, Michigan on March 23, 1934 to Frank O. and Leona A. Staiger, career Salvationists who taught him by example the importance of hard work, kindness, and serving one’s community.
He graduated from Port Huron High School in 1952, where he was a member of the undefeated Big Reds varsity football team that won the 1951 Eastern Michigan League championship. He earned a bachelor degree from the University of Wisconsin and served in the United States Army in Southern France for two years before earning a law degree from the University of Michigan.
He was an attorney in Detroit until he and his family moved to St. Clair, after which he practiced law in Port Huron as a partner in Davidson, Staiger and Staiger, specializing in trust and estate law. As St. Clair’s City Attorney he was deeply involved in the urban renewal project that reshaped the downtown St. Clair business district and riverfront.
Eventually he joined the Commercial & Savings Bank of St. Clair County. He was a member of the bank’s Board of Directors and led the Trust Department, where he served many area families and managed pension fund investments for a range of clients, including several local labor unions.
He was active in many local organizations, including the Community Foundation of St. Clair County, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in St. Clair, Blue Water YMCA, and St. Clair County Community College, where he served on the board of trustees for eighteen years, sixteen as Chairman. He was also active in the United Way, where he led multiple annual fundraising campaigns.
He loved sailing, music, cooking, and a glass of red wine. He was kind and generous with his time, especially when serving his community. Despite his achievements he was humble, preferring to highlight the accomplishments of others over his own. Above all, he was a dedicated father and husband, and throughout his life he set an extraordinary example for his family.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Barbara Ann Staiger, the love of his life. He is also survived by his children Bill (Debbie) Staiger, Mike (Deb) Staiger, and Amy Staiger, as well as five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers David S. (Ann) Staiger and Frank O. (Irene) Staiger, Jr.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the United Way of St. Clair County or St. Clair County Community College.
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