Charles Frank Piekarski

Charles Frank Piekarski of Fergus Falls, passed away Sunday, October 11, 2026 at his home from complications of ALS. He was 78 years old. He was born on April 15, 1948 to Steven and Rachel (Sanco) Piekarski of Fergus Falls. Growing up on a farm west of town, Charles (Charlie) started his schooling, walking to a one-room schoolhouse #1506 that was a mile away each day until the 6th grade. He then went to school in Fergus Falls and later completed his high school career graduating in 1966. He attended the Junior College in Fergus Falls for two years graduating with this AA degree.

Charlie married his wife "Precious" Carol Richards of Norcross, MN on April 9, 1972. The two started their legacy in farming not far from where Charlie grew up and they became well-respected as successful cash-crop farmers with a feeder pig operation and seed corn dealership. Charlie was an avid wildlife advocate and intertwined his farming operation with wetland and wildlife habitat restoration. He enjoyed the outdoors and took part in fishing and hunting each year with many family members and friends.

Charlie and Carol raised four daughters and taught them the importance of working hard and to enjoy what life has to offer. As a supportive father, Charlie was not a stranger attending many of his daughters' band concerts, parades, school and 4-H events. He was especially proud to become a grandfather to ten grandchildren and enjoyed watching them grow and participate in many of their interests. He was also known to give pickup and truck rides to their dog companions.

Charlie was an active and respected member of his community. He served as a Carlisle township officer for over 50 years, a member of the MN Corn and Soybean Growers Association, served on the Soil and Water Conservation Board, a 4-H Leader and a member of the Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church just to name a few. During the last few years, he also loaded and delivered food each week from Walmart to the food shelf knowing his contribution would make a difference. He was a friend to everyone and rarely met someone he couldn't strike a conversation up with. He was known for his smile, laughter and kindness which made him a well-liked individual. He treasured his time spent with loved ones and created lasting memories with them. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous heart and dependable nature. He leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond the fields he cultivated. The seeds he planted both in the soil and in the hearts of those who knew him will continue to grow for generations to come.

Charles is survived by his wife Carol of 54 years, his four daughters: Christine (Mike) Mackai of Embarrass, MN, Carla (Syd) Swanson of Sartell, MN, Charlene (Dominic) Blume of Elbow Lake, MN and Cynthia (Jesse) Folk of Bismark, ND; 10 grandchildren: Brandon, Jacob and Miranda Mackai, Brooke (Tyren) Mattick, Ashlyn Swanson, Alexa and Whitney Blume, Ava, Charles and Morgan Folk; two brothers: John (Sandra) Piekarski of Fergus Falls and James (Sharon) Piekarski of Frazee, MN; in-laws Dale and Olivia Richards, Fern Darkow and Shirley Matthews, many cousins, nieces and nephews, neighbors and friends.

Service: 2:00 p.m. Sunday, October 18, 2026 at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service.

Clergy: Father Alan Wielinski, Father Bob Kieffer, and Deacon Chuck Kampa

Interment: St. Ottos Catholic Cemetery, Fergus Falls, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com