Charles Edward Schwenke, 81, of Zortman, Montana passed away August 7, 2020 peacefully at his home on the ranch surrounded by family. Charles Schwenke, son of Chester and Josie (D’Hooge) Schwenke was born on August 23, 1938 in Havre, Montana. He grew up on the family farm south of Zurich. He attended Zurich Grade School and graduated from Chinook High School in 1956.
Charles was united in marriage to Lorraine Miller on May 3, 1961 in Whitefish, Montana. They started farming in the Milk River Valley west of Harlem, where they raised corn, sugar beets, hay and had a feedlot. Charlie also ran a trucking business and hauled groceries to Turner and Hogland for several years.
Charlie learned a great love of horses from his dad Chester and they broke many horses together. He loved chariot racing, chuckwagon racing and roman riding. In his spare time, he enjoyed O-Mok-Sees and team roping’s. Charlie and Lorraine loved team roping together.
In 1977, Charlie and Lorraine purchased their ranch on Thornhill Butte near Landusky. Charlie’s pride and joy was raising good horses and bulls. He not only wanted to be a good cowboy, but also a great cowman. He always wanted the best for his cows and less for himself.
Charlie was a competitive person in anything he did in life. He loved a good card game with anyone who dared to play with him. He enjoyed spending time visiting with his family and friends.
Charlie was survived by his sons, Dusty (Julie) of Harlem and Shane (Vicki) of Zortman; his sister Linda (Bill) McFarland of Valier, Montana; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his mother Josie, his father Chester, and wife Lorraine.
Memorials can be made in Charlie’s name to “Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund” or to a charity of your choice.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Wednesday August 12, 2020
Thornhill Ranch
2210 Power Plant Rd
Zortman, Montana 59546
Burial
2:00 p.m.
Wednesday August 12, 2020
Thornhill Ranch
2210 Power Plant Rd
Zortman, Montana 59546
Share
Cleve Schwenke says
Saddened but relieved for my cousin Charlie. We only got together a very few times but had lasting memories of the times. So grateful that we were able to attend his hosted cousins reunion at the ranch and see his world. May we meet again.
Cleve Schwenke
Jason Cronk says
My condolences. Thoughts and prayers are with Dusty and Shane and their families.
Emily Olson says
Deepest sympathy to Lorraine and family. Heaven gain one of the greatest cowboys I ever met!
Leanne Brewer says
He was such a sweetheart! I will miss him and his hugs! My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Jimmy Soak Miller says
So sorry for the loss of your Father, prayers your way Dusty, Shane much love to both heaven just got a top hand
Emily arthun says
Sorry very sorry for your loss. So many memories I have of Charlie. He let me ride a yellow horse for awhile one summer when mine was hurt. A great person.
Vonnie & Dale Klungland says
Our thoughts and prayers for all of Charlie’s families!! He was an amazing cowboy!! My brother, Irv spent lots of time with him and Lorraine!,
JULIE says
Heavan has gained another great cowboy. Dusty and Shane hold tight to those great memories. My thoughts and prayers are with all your family. Julie (Robinson) Dandrea.
Brenda (Martin) Grebe says
RIP Cowboy!! My thoughts & prayers are with you Dusty, Shane & families!!! I have many fond memories from years ago!! Cherrish all your memories!! 💔
Kay Howard says
Condolences from the Gilbert and Smith Ranch families. Charlie held the respect of many and we will always remember him as a tough and successful rancher and friend. God Bless your families, hold tight to all the wonderful years of memories.
Kathy Creighton-Smith says
Charlie was an amazing man who always had a great story to tell. I always enjoyed seeing him and learned something every time. My prayers are with Shane, Dusty and their families.
Andrita Harris says
Heaven has gained cowboy angel.
My deepest sympathy and condolences for the family
RIP COWBOY.
Steve “Shelly” Fox says
Much respect for this man and his family. Rest In Peace Charlie 😢
Larry Schwenke says
Farewell to a Montana legend! So glad to have witnessed Cousin Charlie and Lorraine’s pride in hosting the reunion at their amazing ranch. Laurie and I enjoyed the opportunities to see them at MSUN games and treasure the memories of their visit to Coeur d’Alene for a previous reunion. Condolences to the entire family. God Bless
Chuck Spoonheim says
Sorry for your loss Dusty,Shane and families! God Speed Charlie!
Jack Billingsley says
Sorry for your loss.Was glad to see Charlie at the Malta rodeo
Jack and Andie Billingsley
Robert & Daryl French Family says
Condolences from the extended family of Bob & Daryl French. We all have fond and fun stories of Charley & Bob managing the Square Butte Grazing Association. We will miss Charley, his wit, his intensity, and his unique ability to solve intractable problems while building the future.