"I had the pleasure and the honor of working alongside Charles at Harman-Motive from 1987 to 1990. In a matter of days we became close friends and remained so over the years. He was one of the wisest, warmest and talented men I have known with the courage to tackle any challenge. I will never forget his smile and great sense of humor. My wife Elaine and I send our heartfelt condolences to his son Scott and his family. We pray for comfort for all of Charles' family and friends for the loss of this great man. May he Rest in Peace and his memory be eternal. Parry and Elaine Tsangaris"
In loving memory of
Charles Peer
May 26, 1925 - March 7, 2018
Charles Peer entered the dawn of his new life on March 7th, 2018.
Charles is survived by his son, Scott C. Peer and wife Tracy, and his grandchildren Adele and Maxwell Peer. His extended family of sister Ella Stram and husband Stan, their children Becky, Robin, Cheryl, and Greg live in the Chicagoland area. His other sister, Margie Peer, lives in the Columbus, OH area and all also survive him. His brother-in-law Norman Nedde Jr., and his children Larry, Cindy, and Julie, all live in the Indianapolis area. Charles was a gentle, funny, caring, strong, courageous, musical man and was enjoyed by all who met him. Charles was loved by friends, neighbors, colleagues, and most especially his beloved Chihuahua, Abby, who accompanied him in his last years.
He is preceded into his new life by his wife, Norma Patricia Peer, his parents Helen and Frank Peer, brother Edward Peer, and his in-laws, Peg and Norman Nedde, Sr.
Charles was born in Rossford, Ohio and enlisted in the Navy six months after Pearl Harbor. He served on both Mine Sweepers in the North Atlantic, and Sub Chasers in the Pacific, rising to the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class Sonarman. He participated in several battles in the Pacific Theater including Saipan, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. He was decorated with the Purple Heart after suffering a severe head wound during the largest kamikaze attack of the War.
He graduated from Toledo University and enjoyed a long career at North American Van Lines and R.C.A., retiring in 1987. He continued work as a consultant for Harman Motive in Martinsville for many years.
He met his wife Pat of more than 50 years on a beach in Sarasota, Florida, and they lived in Ft. Wayne, Memphis, TN, and Indianapolis. Together, they traveled the world, visiting 77 countries on all seven continents.
Music on the accordion was also an integral part of Charles' life that included professional gigs, as well as volunteer work at senior facilities in his later years.
Visitation is 4pm to 8pm at Leppert Mortuary, Nora Chapel, 740 E. 86th St, Indianapolis on Tues. March 13th, and a Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Our Lady of Peace Mausoleum Chapel at 9001 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis at 10:30am on Wed., March 14th, 2018.