Obituary of Michael Arthur Chartraw

A devoted husband, father, and veteran, Michael “Mike” Arthur Chartraw, 68, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He bravely faced Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, for 18 months.

Mike was born on February 17, 1956, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He dedicated his life to service, both to his country and his community. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for 17 years, with postings in Minnesota, Germany, Nevada, and Florida. He also served during the Desert Shield/Storm conflict in the early 1990s. In 1992, Mike returned to Minnesota to build a life with his family. He then dedicated over 30 years to public service with local government, culminating in his retirement from Hennepin County in late 2023.

Mike cherished his family above all else. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Margaret; his daughter, Amy Nyren, and son-in-law, Nathan Nyren; his brother, Dennis (Ruth) Chartraw; his mother; and other family members. He was preceded in death by his brother, Steven Chartraw; his father; and step-brother.

An avid outdoorsman, Mike found joy in nature. He loved camping with his family, fishing in all seasons, duck hunting, and deer hunting. When he wasn't enjoying the outdoors, he could be found immersed in a good book, tending to his extensive book and record collection, or spending time with his cherished dog, Ferris.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Hubert’s Catholic Community (8201 Main Street, Chanhassen, MN). Visitation will be held one hour prior to the Mass, beginning at 10:00 AM, with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the ALS Association in Mike’s memory to support research and care for those affected by this devastating disease.