Obituary of Leonard Draeger

Leonard J. "Chuck" Draeger, Jr., passed away in Duluth on July 1, 2004. He was born January 5, 1928 in Baraga, MI to Leonard, Sr., and Lillian (Deau) Draeger. He attended schools in L'Anse and Munising, MI, graduating in 1945. That same year, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged in 1948 with the rank of QM3. He married Theresa Broda in 1947. They moved to Duluth in 1951 and to Carlton in 1957. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Dess, Barney and Donald; a sister, Juanita "Donnie" Johnson and his son-in-law, Frank "Poncho" Talarico. Chuck is survived by his loving family including his wife of 57 years, Theresa, of Carlton; two daughters, Amy Talarico of Duluth and Jessica (Greg) Snyder of Houston, TX; three grandchildren, Paul (Brenda) Talarico of Roseville, Todd Talarico of Menlo Park, CA and Amy Jo Talarico of Duluth; his special great grandson, Henry Talarico of Rosville ("Charlie Brown" to his great grandpa); two sisters, Rita Wentela of Neenah, WI and Naomi "Tiny" Ekdahl of L'Anse, MI and many nieces and nephews. Chuck's family thanks the kindness and care given to him by the 3rd floor Oncology and Hospice Units at St. Mary's Medical Center. A special thank you to Sister Sue Fortier, O.S.B., St. Mary's chaplain, for her support to both Chuck and his family. Per Chuck's wishes, there will be no services. A private family gathering to celebrate his life will be held later. Arrangements entrusted to Northland Funeral Home, 801 14th Street, Cloquet.