Charles Edward Schwenke, 81, of Zortman, Montana passed away August 7, 2020 peacefully at his home on the ranch surrounded by family. Charles Schwenke, son of Chester and Josie (D’Hooge) Schwenke was born on August 23, 1938 in Havre, Montana. He grew up on the family farm south of Zurich. He attended Zurich Grade School and graduated from Chinook High School in 1956.
Charles was united in marriage to Lorraine Miller on May 3, 1961 in Whitefish, Montana. They started farming in the Milk River Valley west of Harlem, where they raised corn, sugar beets, hay and had a feedlot. Charlie also ran a trucking business and hauled groceries to Turner and Hogland for several years.
Charlie learned a great love of horses from his dad Chester and they broke many horses together. He loved chariot racing, chuckwagon racing and roman riding. In his spare time, he enjoyed O-Mok-Sees and team roping’s. Charlie and Lorraine loved team roping together.
In 1977, Charlie and Lorraine purchased their ranch on Thornhill Butte near Landusky. Charlie’s pride and joy was raising good horses and bulls. He not only wanted to be a good cowboy, but also a great cowman. He always wanted the best for his cows and less for himself.
Charlie was a competitive person in anything he did in life. He loved a good card game with anyone who dared to play with him. He enjoyed spending time visiting with his family and friends.
Charlie was survived by his sons, Dusty (Julie) of Harlem and Shane (Vicki) of Zortman; his sister Linda (Bill) McFarland of Valier, Montana; eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his mother Josie, his father Chester, and wife Lorraine.
Memorials can be made in Charlie’s name to “Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund” or to a charity of your choice.