Charles “Charlie” A. Berner, 52, of Watertown, SD, passed away on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel in Watertown, with Pastor Steve Biswell officiating. The family request that the guest wear comfortable casual attire.
Visitation will be held at Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel in Watertown on Tuesday from 5:00-7:00 p.m. and before the service on Wednesday.
Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Watertown. Honorary pallbearers will be his family and friends. Ryan Thorson, Dean Seim, Mark Fox, Lance Blinsmon, Kevin Bach, Steve Sears, Culley Lebert, and Mike Robbins.
Charles “Charlie” Alan Berner was born on December 9, 1971, in Watertown, SD, to Ronald and Verla (Mudgett) Berner. He was raised in Watertown alongside his two sisters and one brother. At an early age, Charlie became fascinated with wheels and motors which quickly turned into a love for speed. Whether it was racing toy cars in the living room or driving go-karts in the alley, Charlie learned to work hard while having fun—an approach he carried throughout his life.
Charlie was baptized at Grace Lutheran Church in Watertown, SD. He attended Roosevelt Elementary, Watertown Middle School, and graduated from Watertown High School in 1989. After graduation, Charlie worked at Custom Fabricators for a short time before striking out on his own.
In 1996, Charlie married Debra Henry, and they were blessed with a baby girl, Morgan Lee. Over the years, Charlie and Morgan enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—watching cartoons, traveling to warmer climates, enjoying theme parks, and sharing laughs. She was his whole world.
Charlie was a successful, self-made man who built his business, Midwest Automotive, from the ground up. Over the years, his business offered a range of services—from detailing and selling used cars to specializing in truck accessories and remote-control cars. Charlie was always eager to try something new, with more business ideas than hours in the day. He expanded his building to accommodate several salons and small businesses including Midwest Race Cabinets. He eventually outgrew the space and acquired another building to further expand his businesses.
Charlie wasn’t just about work. He deeply cared for those around him, always ready to lend a hand or share a word of wisdom. His love for drag racing kept him in the fast lane, but it was his storytelling that truly lit up a room. Charlie had a gift for spinning tales that left everyone in stitches, finding humor in just about anything. His infectious laughter and witty stories will be cherished by all who had the pleasure of hearing them. Charlie was a member of Watertown Drag Racing Association and spent much time at Thunder Valley Dragway and traveling. He also enjoyed renovating homes and restoring cars.
With a tough exterior and a loving heart, Charlie was the kind of guy you couldn’t help but admire. Hardworking, stubborn as a mule, and always chasing a dream, he left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
Charlie is survived by his daughter, Morgan Berner of Watertown; his mother, Verla Berner; sisters Roxy (Jeff) Robinson and Kay (Bill) Shepherd, both of Watertown; his brother Kevin (Dawn) Berner of Watertown; his nieces Kami (Louis) Canfield and Whitney (Tanner) Chilson; nephews Jeremy (Carley) Shepherd, Josh Shepherd, and Wyatt Berner; his great-nephews Carter Canfield, Tysen Canfield, and Camdyn Shepherd; his great-nieces Kynsli Canfield and Ellyson Shepherd; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Berner; and his grandparents, Ralph and Eva Berner, and Harlan and Fern Mudgett.
Arrangements by Crawford-Osthus Funeral Chapel www.crawfordosthus.com Watertown, Hayti, De Smet, Bryant, Arlington, Lake Preston, Oldham
