Charles “Mike” Gaddie was born on June 1, 1953, to Chuck and Laura Gaddie and died on May 17, 2026. Depending on when you knew him, he also embraced the nicknames Chuck, Whopper, and Big Mike.
He was proud to have been raised in the South Park neighborhood of St. Joseph and was equally proud to be an alumnus of Lafayette High School. Go Irish.
In 1973, he married Ruth Swope, who survives him. She was not only his wife, but also his lifelong golf partner. He often boasted about winning golf matches against her, though those claims were rarely confirmed.
By trade, Mike drove an 18-wheeler. If you mentioned a road trip, he would whip out his paper atlas to show you the best route. He would also offer insight on truck stop ratings and the best places to eat along the way.
Mike was a golfer, a fan of high school and college sports, and a connoisseur of TV crime dramas. He also enjoyed patrolling the neighborhood with his snowblower. He was a simple man with a pure and kind soul. We will miss his blunt commentary, sarcasm, and razor-sharp wit.
In 2002, during his first year of eligibility, Mike earned the title of “Grandpa of the Year.” He retained that title for 24 consecutive years, until his passing.
Beginning in childhood, Mike struggled with his health. Despite enduring a great deal of pain, he pushed through and enjoyed life. Over the years, it took an army of medical professionals to keep him going. The family is incredibly grateful for their efforts, especially those of Dr. Bryan Green, Dr. AJ, and Dr. Richard Morgan.
Mike is survived by his wife, Ruth Gaddie; son, Chad Gaddie (Julie); daughter, Jenni Gaddie (Laura); grandson, Carson Gaddie; and granddaughter, Ava Gaddie. He is also survived by his siblings, Gerald Gaddie, James Gaddie, and Linda Gaddie. Additionally, he leaves behind lifelong buddy Eric Bruns and a gallery of golf friends. His brother, Tom Gaddie and brother-in-law Scott Weston predeceased him.
Mike suggested that instead of a memorial service, his family should “just have a nice dinner at Chili’s.” We are declining his offer and instead hosting a celebration of life on June 19th at the InspireU event space in St. Joseph. It will begin with a social hour at 6:00 p.m., followed by a brief service at 7:00 p.m. All who knew Mike are invited to attend.
Arrangements under the direction of Heaton-Bowman-Smith & Sidenfaden Chapel.
