Charles D. Harrison Obituary
Charles D. Harrison, 80, of Stevensville, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Hanson Hospice Center, surrounded by his family.
Charles was born on November 9, 1945, to Charles S. and Wanda (Roberts) Harrison in Evansville, Indiana. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and honorably served his country during the Vietnam War.
Following his military service, Charles began a career in law enforcement with the City of Benton Harbor Police Department, where he worked in undercover narcotics and served for many years, attaining the rank of Sergeant. After taking an early retirement, Charles was ready for his next adventure. He attended auctioneer school and began conducting auctions and estate sales, eventually opening his own business, Harrison’s Antiques & Auction Services.
Charles’s interests and talents extended well beyond his professional life. He later attended the Monroe Institute in West Virginia and became a Reiki Master Teacher and Master Sound Therapist. Deeply spiritual and connected to the natural world, Charles believed that everything carried energy. He enjoyed sharing what he had learned with others and used his talents to teach and work with prisoners at KPEC, veterans through the VA in Battle Creek, and students in local school systems.
Nature was another important part of Charles’s life, and few places meant more to him than Grand Mere State Park. He loved spending time there and frequently shared the experience with family, friends, and groups he brought along with him. He also had a particular love for eagles and what they represented.
Charles was fiercely independent and truly marched to the beat of his own drum. Even after losing his leg, he remained determined to experience the outdoors and maintain his independence. More recently, an Outrider Coyote four-wheel adaptive wheelchair gave Charles something incredibly meaningful, the ability to get back on the trails, explore the places he loved, and regain a sense of freedom that he deeply valued.
Charles lived life on his own terms. From serving his country and community, to running his own business, teaching others, exploring his spirituality, and finding peace in nature, he followed his interests wherever they led him. Above all, he will be remembered for his independent spirit, his connection to the world around him, and the many unique ways he shared his life and knowledge with others.
Charles is survived by his daughter, Heather Steinke; son, Chad (Jennifer) Harrison; grandchildren, Sophia (Jaden Hollis) Brook, Ella Harrison, Hailey (Dante) Silva-Lewis, Hannah (Jake Sharpe) Harrison and Alexa Harrison; great-grandson, Leon Silva-Lewis and beloved pets, yellow lab, Layla Hoka-Hey and calico cat, Dizzy.
Those wishing to make a donation in Charles's name may do so to the Berrien County Veterans Services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, St. Joseph. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
