Charles G. Menk, Jr.

Faithful husband, loving father, former Army Officer, retired IBM engineer, and IT professional at Franciscan University, Charles George Menk, Jr’s life did not come to an end with his death but merely marks the beginning of his new life with Jesus Christ in Heaven where he will join his wife, daughter and many other loved ones that preceded him in their journey.

Charles received last rights and peacefully passed away on February 27th, 2026, at the age of 90, in his room, surrounded by his loved ones, after a full life of faithful and dedicated service to our Lord, his family, our nation, fellow co-workers, and his community.  Charles’ memory will be carried on in his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and all those he served, both publicly and behind the scenes.

Charles is survived by his boys, Carl, Daniel, and Charles, III; and girls, Catherine, and Cynthia; 18 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his wife Carol, daughter Christine,  two brothers, Burt and Caleb and four sisters, Delores, Bernice, Laverne, and Charlotte.

Charles was born the youngest of 7 children in Garfield Heights, Ohio. He graduated from Xavier University, Ohio with his Bachelor of Computer Engineering and attained his Masters of Ergonomics from The University of Manchester, England. He worked for IBM as a Products Planner and was instrumental in developing the Japanese keyboard system for the AS-400. He also served as an artilleryman in the U.S. Army and in the Ohio National Guard.

In 1962, Charles met the love of his life, Carol Spittler on a blind date.  They were married shortly after at Carol’s home parish, St. Theresa’s Church in Garfield Heights, Ohio.  The young couple and their growing family had many adventures, including living in Wilmslow, England, while Charles finished his master’s degree.  Charles and Carol also lived in Cleveland Ohio, Poughkeepsie, New York, and Lake City, Minnesota. 

Once their children were grown he and his wife moved to Steubenville, Ohio, until after her death in 2022. Charles resided in WYNGATE Senior Living Community in Weirton, WV from early 2023 until October of 2025 when he relocated to be with his daughter Catherine and her family in Norton, Ohio.  In his retirement years, Charles kept busy as: The founder of a Non-Profit called National Motto Advocates; A member of the Steubenville chapter of L’Arche; An adamant supporter of pro-life initiatives; A local minister in the Order of Franciscan Secular; A consultant to his son Charles’ IT and Financial firms; and much more.

Charles worked alongside Carol in Engaged Encounter for 25 years, mentoring over 500 young Catholic couples. The simplest things about life brought Charles great pleasure - he loved spending a quiet evening with family (although those are hard to come by in the Menk family, we are a rowdy bunch), playing cards, cooking, and sharing a good meal, and of course, apple pie and milk. 

He found solace in prayer and spiritual readings. Charles loved his Catholic faith and was a Knight of the fourth degree in the Order of the Knights of Columbus. He dearly loved each of his children and their spouses, and grandchildren, with all his heart. He will be forever cherished and greatly missed.

Memorial services will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Steubenville Ohio. Viewing will be from 9:30am to 11:00am, which will include a Vigil Service of the Order of Franciscan Secular, led by Mr. Chris Taylor at 10:00 and a Rosary lead by the Knights of Columbus at 10:15am. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00am. The homily will be preached by his son-in-law, Deacon Michael Welker. After the mass, a luncheon for relatives and friends will be held at the church in Malara hall.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to www.supportaim.org.

Offer condolences at www.mostifuneralhome.com