Charles "Chuck" Wilkinson, of Farmington Hills, a beloved husband, dad, and grandpa, unexpectedly passed peacefully into eternal life on Tuesday afternoon, September 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born December 18, 1935, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Chuck was the cherished son of Gerrard and Marie (Drazil) Wilkinson. He graduated from high school in Hamilton and began his career at Hamilton's Channel 11, working alongside his brother, Gerry. On July 7, 1962, he married the love of his life, Theresa, at St. Patrick Cathedral in Hamilton. The couple shared a special bond from the start, delighting in dancing together to big band music—a passion that set the joyful tone for their life ahead. Soon after, the newlyweds moved to Southfield, Michigan, beginning a remarkable life together that would span 63 years of marriage.

Chuck's career flourished when Channel 50 in Detroit recruited him for his talent in sports broadcasting. For nearly 40 years, he worked tirelessly behind the camera, filming games and live feeds for Detroit's beloved teams—the Red Wings, Lions, and Tigers. His work brought him to iconic venues like Olympia Stadium and Tiger Stadium, where he rubbed elbows with legendary figures in Detroit sports. Toward the end of his career, he expanded his role by going on location to shoot footage for the 10 o'clock news and also manned the cameras in the studio for the live broadcast. A creative storyteller from behind the camera, Chuck had a unique talent for bringing the stories vividly to life for viewers. He was awarded a television Emmy for his achievements in this regard. He also developed lasting friendships with on-air personalities, including Bill Kennedy and Amyre Makupson. Together with Theresa, he also enjoyed entertaining friends from the station at their home, where laughter and camaraderie abounded. Known for his strong work ethic, Chuck instilled in his children the values of dedication and responsibility that defined his professional life.

At the heart of Chuck's life was his unwavering role as the rock of his family. Dependable and steady, he was always ready to come to their aid, get them out of any jam, and provide sound, heartfelt advice. Chuck was the ultimate handyman—there wasn't a thing in a house or yard that he couldn't fix, build, or improve, a skill he took pride in and joyfully shared with his children and grandchildren. His dry sense of humor often added a subtle spark of wit to family gatherings, providing smiles and lighthearted moments that those close to him will always cherish.

Chuck's love of the outdoors and the water was a cornerstone of the family's summers. They spent cherished times at cottages on the lake in Wasaga Beach, as well as annual visits to the lodge on the Muskoka Lakes in Canada. At the lodge, Chuck especially enjoyed water skiing and golf, embracing the active lifestyle the beautiful surroundings inspired. These times provided rich memories filled with fun, family, and nature.

In retirement, Chuck's passions continued to shine. He delighted in classic cars, sharing this love with his grandson Grant, and enjoyed attending the Motor Muster at Greenfield Village and the Downtown Farmington car show. With his granddaughter Emma, he treasured backyard dinners and quiet conversations filled with laughter and stories. Chuck and Theresa's adventurous spirits took them cruising across the Caribbean, British Columbia, and beyond, always seeking new experiences to savor together. Their visits to the Windsor Casino were marked by celebrated moments at concerts, New Year's Eve parties, and other special events.

Beyond travel and hobbies, Chuck and Theresa built homes and managed investment properties, where his work ethic and keen eye served them well. Above all, Chuck's greatest fulfillment was in his family—devoted husband, nurturing father, and proud grandfather who took every opportunity to be fully present in their lives.

Chuck is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Theresa; loving children, Karen (fiancé Wayne Moroso) Wilkinson, John Wilkinson, and Laura (John) Rigdon; and cherished grandchildren, Grant Goelde and Emma Rigdon. In addition to his parents, Chuck was preceded in death by siblings, Marion (the late Murray) Peters and Gerry (the late Marge) Wilkinson.

A funeral ceremony to honor Chuck's life will be held on Wednesday afternoon, October 1, at 5:00 pm, at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington. His family will receive guests from 1 pm until the start of the 5 pm ceremony.

Memorial tributes are suggested to the Michael J. Fox Foundation or the Alzheimer's Association .

Chuck's memory will live on in the laughter, stories, and traditions of his family, in the steady strength he provided throughout their lives, and in the countless hearts touched by his kindness, skill, and love of life.