Obituary of Charles David Sturm

A man quick to help anyone in need, Charles D. "Charlie" Sturm lost his courageous battle with cancer on July 10, 2013. Born in Akron, Ohio on February 4, 1953, Charlie began working at his father's service station on Tallmadge Circle when he was only nine years old and later became the mechanic there. Beginning in 1984, he ran his own business called C & M Builders and could fix anything from plumbing to roofs to cars. He married Cynthia Shama on July 4, 1974, and they renewed their vows on their 39th anniversary this past July 4th from his hospital bed. Bound by a strong and devoted love, they enjoyed boating, downhill skiing, swimming and bonfires. Charlie was known for his recognizable "Barney Rubble" laugh and ornery sense of humor. He also loved building and racing cars, target practice and especially just hanging out with his wife and family. Besides his wife, Charlie is survived by his family; mother-in-law, Jacqueline Shama; sisters-in-law, Debbie Shama-Davis (Steve Davis) and Kim Shama-Hanna (Tom Hanna); nieces, Amanda, Shannon, Bria and Alyse; and nephews, Jason and Matthew. He also leaves his birth family; his mother, Betty Sturm (currently of Florida); his two brothers, Lonnie and Jeff; his sister, Cindy; nieces, Jennifer and Mallory; and nephew, Matthew. He also leaves his best friend and business partner, Mark Rowe. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, A.E. "Ossie" Shama; and his father, Charles Sturm. A man of strong faith, one of the last things he said was, "Our family will be all sewn together in life-after-death." Funeral service will be held Monday, 11 a.m. at St. George Orthodox Church, 3204 Ridgewood Rd. in Copley where Charles will lie in state one hour prior to service. Very Rev. Fr. Louis Mahshie officiating. Entombment at Mt. Peace Cemetery in Akron. The family will receive friends Sunday, 4 to 7 p.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel, 1990 S. Main St. in Akron. (Anthony, Akron, 330-724-1281, www.anthonyfh.com)