Charles Russell Lutz, 96,  of Shell Lake died Sunday, March 31, 2019 at Indianhead Medical Center. He was born March 31, 1923 in Shell Lake to William and Eva (Miller) Lutz and graduated from Shell Lake High School in 1942. Charles served with the U.S. Army with the 326 fighter group, the beginning of Army Air Corps, until a medical discharge forced his exit. He then worked for Boeing for several years following. He was married at the Little Brown Church in the Vale  in Nashua, Iowa on January 2, 1950 to Betty Espeland, and he spent the rest of his life in Shell Lake. Charles was deeply committed to his country, but to Shell Lake in particular. Over the course of his years, Charles owned several businesses, served on many boards and committees including several years as Mayor of Shell Lake. 

He is survived by his children: Mary (Bob) Baker of Iron Mountain, MI, Steve (Linda) Lutz of Spooner and Deanna (Bruce) Loewenhagen of Waunakee; 5 grandchildren; 7 great granddaughters; 1 great grandson; many nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty; his parents; a son-in-law, Steve Walsh; infant grandson Maxwell and several brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Friday, April 5, 2019 at Shell Lake United Methodist Church with Rev. Steve Miller officiating and burial with full military honors to follow at 2 PM at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 9-11 AM prior to the service at the church.

Skinner Funeral Home of Shell Lake is serving the family.

Last Update: Apr 03, 2019 10:30 am CDT