Obituary of Charles LaPlace Shudtz

Charles LaPlace Shudtz, 83, of Bonita Springs, FL, passed away on August 20, 2023 surrounded by his family. 

Born in Staten Island, NY to Ursula and Charles Shudtz on August 12, 1940, Charles grew up in Staten Island attending P.S. 45 and Augustinian Academy, class of 1958.  He went on to attend Norwich University in Northfield, VT, class of 1962.  While at Norwich, Charles played varsity football, basketball and baseball and participated fully in cadet life.  Charles is a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam and state side in the Army Reserves. He then furthered his lifelong passion for flying as a captain for Eastern Airlines and later flying private aviation worldwide for over 20 years. During his lifetime he enjoyed playing sports activities with his children, including coaching many youth sport teams and being recognized often for his contributions to youth activities by local organizations. Charles cherished his family time, particularly during the many fun and adventurous family vacations and gatherings at his “resort” in Bonita Springs.  He was active in the Norwich University alumni association and  honored to be a member of the “Old Guard.” Charles made many charitable gifts to Norwich University and other causes, including Wounded Warriors, Tunnel to Towers and Boys Town. All through life, Charles pursued his many interests in global travel, skiing, cruising, sports, nature and spending time with children, grandchildren, extended family and his many friends. 

Charles is survived by his sons, Charles (Monica), Luke, daughter Katherine (Tom), brother Peter (Karen), nephew Matthew (Chelsea), niece Kristin Potter (Bill) and significant other Carol Thompson.

His light shines on through his grandchildren: Thomas Korte (Katherine), Jane Korte (Katherine), Charles Shudtz (Charles), Trevor Shudtz (Charles) and Reed Shudtz (Charles).

He is preceded in death by his father Charles P. Shudtz, mother Ursula M. Shudtz (née LaPlace) and  nephew Geoffrey R.Shudtz.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Thursday, August 24 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the Bailey Funeral Home,  8 Hilltop Rd., Mendham, NJ.   The funeral mass will be held Friday, August 24, 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Mendham, NJ, with internment immediately following for family members at Moravian Cemetery, Staten Island, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Norwich University, Norwich University Office of Development, 158 Harmon Drive, Northfield, VT