Charles Lloyd Conner passed away on Wednesday, March 4, surrounded by his loving family at the Minnesota Silver Bay Veterans Home, after a 10-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. He leaves behind a life defined by dedication, adventure, and deep love for family and friends.

Chuck was born June 26, 1945, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He spent his early years in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, until the age of 14, when he moved to Malta, Montana. He graduated from high school in Havre, Montana, in 1963.

Shortly after graduation, Chuck proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1967 as a jet engine mechanic. His time in the Navy began a lifelong connection to aviation that would shape the rest of his career.

Following his military service, Chuck began a remarkable 37-year career in the airline industry. He worked for North Central Airlines, Republic Airlines, and Northwest Airlines from 1967 until his retirement in 2004. In addition to his airline career, Chuck was also a pilot and a flight instructor, sharing his knowledge and passion for flying with many others over the years.

Outside of aviation, Chuck loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and skiing, and treasured time spent at the cabin. These moments in nature were among his greatest joys.

Above all else, Chuck loved his family. Time spent with those he loved meant the most to him, and his loyal dog was always close by his side.

Chuck is survived by his best friend and wife, Jean; his children, Christian Conner, Courtney (Jaime) Hulsebusch, and Lee Cutler; the mother of his children, Sandie Conner; and his four grandchildren, Malayah, Olivia “Ole”, Gradyn, and Logan.

A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, March 12, at 1:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (Coppertop), 230 East Skyline Parkway, Duluth, Minnesota.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to the Minnesota Silver Bay Veterans Home. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Silver Bay Veterans Home for their love, compassion, and dedication in caring for Chuck.

 Please make checks payable to MN Veterans Home: Rec Dept. Donations will be used where needed to enhance the lives of our Veterans. Thank you for supporting our Residents. Questions? Contact Randall Walz at (218) 353.8704 (office) or (218) 220-0099 (cellular), 56 Outer Drive,Silver Bay MN 55614

Chuck will be remembered for his steady presence, his love of flight, and the deep love he had for his family and many dear friends.

Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E 2nd Street, Duluth MN 55805, 218-727-3555.

Please visit www.dfhduluth.com to sign the online guestbook.

Blue skies and tailwinds, Chuck.