|
Higgins, Charles G. Age 62, passed away peacefully Monday, November 7, 2016 by his family. He was a special soul - ever teaching love, patience, kindness and tolerance by his example and through his priorities in life.
He is survived by Karen, the love of his life and wife of 26 years, and their beloved children, Chloe (Alex), Jess and Ian. He is also survived by this father Warren (Max) Higgins, mother-in-law Olive Mickey, siblings Rob (Susan), Ris (Joe) and Barb (Mike) and sisters-in-law Lynne (Bill), Gwen (John) and brother-in-law Neil. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews: Katie (Chris), Ryan (Ashley), Brandon (Kaisha), Thea, Barry, Grant, Samantha (Brian), Brian, Jake; and grand-nieces Penelope, Jolene and Olivia and grand-nephew Braxton.
Charlie studied theater at UW-Milwaukee for 2 years, but left to study mime under Etienne Decroux in France for 3 years. When he returned home his mime, theater magic and juggling skills translated into years of giving joy and laughter as Crackers the Clown. He volunteered for 20 years as Crackers at Children's Hospital, and worked at Summerfest, State Fair and countless birthday parties bringing delight to those he entertained.
He always carried balloons in his pocket wherever he went, making balloon animals, hats and other sculptures to bring smiles to countless others whether bored at a restaurant, waiting in line or holding a crying child.
Preceded in death by mother, Loe Higgins and father-in-law, Ervin Mickey. His family was everything to him. He and Karen loved working together managing their apartments. He cared a lot about his tenants. He was a scout leader and Home & School president.
He volunteered on mission trips to Haiti. St. Mary Parish was very special to him; he was a hospitality minister and so much more. His mime performance on Good Friday was powerful and moving. He will be remembered as a wonderful husband and awesome dad! He has truly lived to moments of joy for other people.
Charlie's family would like to thank the oncology staff on the 12th floor of Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center and the wonderful staff at Zilber Family Hospice for their care. To celebrate his life, a noon visitation and 1 PM funeral service will be held at St. Mary Catholic Faith Community (9520 W. Forest Home Ave., Hales Corners WI 53130). In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the Higgins family for their children's education.
Published in Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Nov. 11, 2016
|
Lawrence Bragman
I just saw this post about my friend Chuck Higgins.
Chuck and I shared quite a few adventures togetther in Milwaukee. We also hitchiked across the U.S. together the summer after our sophomore.year.
We made it to the Great Salt Lake Desert and decided not to test our luck crossing the endless wasteland with our laughably inadequate gear.
Our paths literally diverged on the way back when he stayed in Kansas and I headed home. We kind of drifted apart after that and took our separate paths.
Sad as this news is to me, I'm so glad to read that Chuck followed his dreams,had a family and found community.
It's hard to say happy holidays under the circumstances but let's do our best. Stay safe everyone and hope to see you on the other side of this winter of discontent.
Larry