Charles Mitchell Birchfield Sr.

Charles Mitchell Birchfield Sr., of North Manchester, formerly of Peru, passed away on October 5, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born on July 7, 1943, in Winchester, Kentucky, to Arthur and Nancy (Wolfe) Birchfield.

Charles graduated from Winchester High School in 1961. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Following his time in the military, he began a long career on the railroad. He worked for Norfolk Southern Railroad for thirty-five years as a conductor before retiring in 1996, a career that reflected his steady nature and strong work ethic.

On June 8, 1985, he married Diane Grimm, and together they shared many laughs and adventures. At the center of Charles’s life was his family. His children’s friends thought of him as a dad, and to his stepchildren from previous marriages, he remained an important and caring presence in their lives. He was a caretaker by nature, full of wit, and known for his ability to talk to anyone and everyone. He loved making people laugh and brought warmth and humor to those around him.

Charles also enjoyed the things that brought him freedom and joy. He loved riding his motorcycle, working on sprint and hot rod cars, and reading Louis L’Amour western books.

The loving memory of Charles Mitchell Birchfield Sr. will be forever cherished by his wife, Diane Birchfield, North Manchester; children, Anthony “Tony” Birchfield, Mexico, Dean Birchfield, North Dakota, Charles Mitchell (Amy) Birchfield Jr., Bunker Hill, Mildred Birchfield, Milford, Charlene (Frank) Birchfield, Peru, Tammy (James) Stamper, Washington, Indiana, Renda (Andrew) Loetz, Cromwell, Heidi Keaton, North Manchester, Marllo Jones, Huntington, and Charles Arthur Scott (Krista) Birchfield, Peru; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jimmy Parker; and his infant grandson, Charles Mitchell Birchfield III.

Family and friends may call Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Charles Birchfield Sr., memorial contributions may be made to McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana 46962, to assist with final expenses.

The family of Charles Birchfield Sr. has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.