Charles Mark Gostas

Charles “Chuck” Mark Gostas, age 59, passed away unexpectedly at his home following brain surgery on April 23, 2024. Chuck was born on November 19, 1964, in Neenah to Charles and Janice (Gehring) Gostas. He graduated from Menasha High School where he participated in track and played drums in the school band. Chuck was the “baby” of the family, but he was the pack leader and the troublemaker of the trio of brothers--though perhaps he shared that title with his brother Glen.

Soon after high school, Chuck entered the Marine Corps. He was so proud to have served his country in that capacity. Semper Fi. Chuck’s grandpa came over from Greece, and Chuck relished in his Greek heritage. Opa!

Chuck loved music, especially 80s hair bands, and dreamt of playing drums in one of them. Iron Maiden was his favorite group since he was 11, and he had the t-shirt collection to prove it. He was also a lifelong Packer fan and loved his green and gold. Chuck loved going to live concerts--they seemed to be his life blood and fed his spirit. 

An avid photographer, Chuck had a keen eye for details, colors, and composition. He was able to take wonderful photos of his children during their sporting events. He also loved to take nature photos and set up bird feeders so he could enjoy their visits and take their pictures. He loved furry friends and their snuggles as well.

When Chuck had children, his world changed, and he became a super dad of sorts. He was a stay-at-home dad in their early lives, and took on the role of spoiler-in-chief once he became a grandpa. Chuck found peace in the Serenity Prayer, and his inward focus moved outwards as he grew in his rehabilitation. Chuck’s family included far more than just his blood; he extended his love to his “chosen” family as well. He was a great mentor to those still struggling and was never afraid to share his story and instill hope. His five-year sober anniversary, just recently achieved, was a source of celebration. 

Chuck is survived by his children: Haily (Matthew) Carlson, Courtney (Andrew Palladino) Gostas, Torey (DJ) Lehner, Paul Gostas; grandchildren: Isaac, Lucia, Simon, and Clara; granddogs: Groot, Otto, Gigi, and Eddie. He is further survived by his mother Jan, his brother Gary (Debbie) Gostas, and his nephews Jackson and Davis; his aunts Kathy Gehring and Fran (Randy) Bedore; and many neighbors, friends and friends who became family.

Chuck is preceded in death by his father Chuck Gostas, his brother Glen Gostas, and grandson Levi Lehner.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday May 18, 2024, at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior Street, Appleton, at 11:00am. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 9:00am until the service begins. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Fox Valley Humane Association.