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Welcome to the memorial page for
Charles Poinsatte
May 21, 1925 ~ February 3, 2016 (age 90) 90 Years OldShare using:
Charles Poinsatte, 90, of South Bend, IN passed away February 3, 2016 surrounded by his family at his home.
He was born in Fort Wayne, IN to Albert and Marie (Hoffman) Poinsatte. He was preceded in death by his brother James Poinsatte.
Charles was very proud to be a triple Domer. He received his BA in 1947, his MA in 1951 and his PhD in 1964, all in History from the University of Notre Dame. He served in the Army, taking a break from his graduate studies from 1949 to 1951. Charles taught History at Notre Dame during his graduate studies before beginning a 43 year career as a full professor at Saint Mary’s College, including a long appointment as Chairman of the History Department. He published two books on the early history of Fort Wayne, in addition to being instrumental in founding the Women’s Studies department at St. Mary’s. Throughout the years, many of his students kept in touch as they remembered and deeply respected him.
Charlie met Anne-Marie Harl, the love of his life, in 1956 when she moved as a young woman from Paris, France to study at Notre Dame. Both were teaching at St. Mary’s. Struck by her beautiful blue eyes, bright smile and engaging spirit, he offered to teach her how to drive. In less than a year, they married in the log cabin chapel at Notre Dame. Throughout their marriage, Charlie and Anne-Marie were true partners, collaborating on important scholarly research and writing articles together. He supported her as she pursued her PhD and subsequent teaching career, completely sharing responsibilities for taking care of their three young children. Anne-Marie and Charles traveled worldwide throughout their marriage including extensive travels through the US and most of Europe. Charlie was devoted to caring for Anne-Marie as she has struggled with a long extended illness.
Charles imparted his love of history with many hours of discussions and stories with his children and grandchildren. Both he and Anne-Marie made their home a wonderful place where their children and grandchildren came together to play, learn and grow in support and love. Additionally Charlie had a deep bond with his dogs, and loved gardening and Notre Dame sports.
Charles is survived by Anne-Marie and their three children: John Paul (Mary Anne) Poinsatte of Chattanooga, TN, Francoise (Tom Volckhausen) Poinsatte of Boulder, CO and Laureen (Greg Jones) Poinsatte of South Bend; and seven grandchildren: Kaila, Justin, Taran, Rachael, Kelsey, Tasia and Joanna.
Special thanks to the extended Fort Wayne Poinsatte family for their love, prayers and support. Thanks to his caregivers and Heartland Hospice for their dedication this past year. His children John Paul, Francoise and Laureen, along with their spouses and children, came together to coordinate his care during his final months and supported him with their love in his final hours. Laureen was a bedrock of devotion in managing his care.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 noon Saturday, February 20, 2016 in St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church, 54191 N. Ironwood Road, South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with the family from 7:00 - 9:00 pm Friday, February 19th in the church, as well as 10:00 am - 12:00 noon Saturday, February 20th in the church prior to mass. Burial will take place at a later date in Cedar Grove Cemetery on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. Palmer Funeral Home - Hickey Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pet Refuge, 4626 Burnett Drive, South Bend, IN 46614 or Women’s Care Center, 360 N. Notre Dame Avenue, South Bend, IN 46617.
Online condolences may be left for the Poinsatte family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
Visitation
FridayFebruary 19, 2016
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church
54191 Ironwood Road
South Bend, IN 46635
Visitation
SaturdayFebruary 20, 2016
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
St. Therese, Little Flower Catholic Church
54191 Ironwood Road
South Bend, IN 46635
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