Charlie Ullmer, 74, of Pulaski, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his daughters.

Charlie was large in stature and voice, but even bigger in heart. He lived a life filled with love, laughter, family, friendship, and countless memories. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, loved, and like they belonged. His laughter, stories, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

Son of the late Ron and Betty Ullmer, Charlie spent much of his younger years in Pulaski, working at the family store, Super Ron’s. He attended Pulaski High School, where he excelled in football, wrestling, and track. His athletic talents earned him a full scholarship to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he earned a degree in Physical Education. He went on to play semi-pro football for the West Allis Spartans and, briefly, for the Green Bay Packers. He loved sharing stories of Packer Camp during the Bart Starr era, memories that never seemed to grow old.

Between his father’s entrepreneurial spirit and his mother’s love of cooking and hosting, it was no surprise that Charlie found his calling in the hospitality industry. He opened Charlie’s in the 1970s, beginning a career that would bring him lifelong friendships. His business ventures later included River Street Station in Shiocton, Mr. C’s and JJ’s in Howard, and Red Raider Lounge, Comfort Zone, and Trail’s End Bar and Grill in Pulaski.

Through his businesses, Charlie created more than a livelihood - he built a community. He generously supported those facing hardships and fundraised for multiple organizations, including Special Olympics and Syble Hopp. Customers became friends, and many came to know him as a confidant, a cool uncle, or a second dad.

A true handyman, Charlie was always remodeling and improving his businesses, often with the help of friends and his daughters. He had a talent for making beautiful frames and pictures and enjoyed teaching his daughters these skills, passing along both his knowledge and his knack for figuring out how to make things work.

As the years passed, his twin daughters, Jes and Jen, went from toddlers following their dad around the buildings to working alongside him and eventually managing the family businesses. Charlie was especially happy to see Jen carry on the family’s entrepreneurial tradition by growing a business of her own. It became one of his favorite places to enjoy a Badger or Packer game, and he remained involved in his own special way, taking great pleasure in helping with her monthly drawings.

Charlie’s greatest joy, however, came from his family. He cherished his children and grandchildren and took immense joy in watching them grow. He proudly attended every one of his daughter Ashlee’s school and athletic events, always ready with a listening ear or a helping hand. His granddaughters brought him endless happiness, and he often helped care for the youngest, Deliylah. He entertained the girls with his humor, stories, and larger-than-life personality. He was especially excited to welcome a grandson to the family this winter.

Charlie loved to have a good time. Whether watching a football game with family and friends, enjoying a trip to the casino, playing cards, or singing karaoke, he knew how to make memories. His deep baritone voice could be heard singing Johnny Cash, Elvis’s greatest hits, or a Sonny and Cher duet with his daughter, Jes. He had a natural talent for storytelling, and his tales often came with the familiar ending, “To make a long story short.” Those stories, and the laughter that followed, will be treasured forever.

In his quieter moments, Charlie enjoyed puzzles, sudoku, and fill-in books. His love of puzzle-solving was passed down to his daughters and grandchildren, creating another connection that will continue through the generations.

Charlie’s life was defined by the people he loved and the many lives he touched. He gave generously of his time, humor, and heart. His legacy lives on in his daughters, grandchildren, family, and friends. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the memories he created will remain a source of comfort and joy for years to come.

Charlie is survived by his daughters, Jes (Ron) Zimmerman, Jen Olson, and Ashlee Van De Wettering; his beloved grandchildren, Zoë, Alexia, Deliylah, and his expected grandson, due in February; his siblings, Kristine Ullmer and Ginny (Larry) Westenberg; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ron and Betty Ullmer; his brothers, Michael, John, and Dave Ullmer; sister-in-law, Mary Ullmer; brother-in-law, Fran Ullmer; and niece, Katherine Ullmer.

Friends are invited to gather with family at Marnocha Funeral Home, 186 E. Pulaski St., Pulaski, on Friday, October 2, from 4-7 p.m. with a parish wake service at 7 p.m. The visitation will continue at Assumption B.V.M. Church, 119 E. Pulaski St., Pulaski, on Saturday, from 9-11 a.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with Fr. Edward Tlucek, O.F.M. presiding. Burial will follow in Assumption B.V.M. Cemetery, Pulaski.

Charlie’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the caring staff at St. Luke’s Cardiac ICU for the compassion and care they provided.

Rest easy, Dad. Your voice, your stories, your laughter, and your love will live on in us forever. We love you more than words can say. And to make a long story short… you were one of a kind.