Charles Daas Obituary

Daas, Charles 54, died after a long illness on November 27 in Norfolk, Virginia. Born in Detroit, MI, Charles was raised in Grosse Pointe, MI. Soon after graduating with his B.A. from the University of Michigan, Charles moved to Chicago, subsequently earning an M.A. in Urban Planning from the University of Illinois, Chicago. Charles' expressed his passion for Chicago through his successful, 27-year career in urban planning and education. He had a boundless enthusiasm for making the world a better place. A champion of affordable housing, Charles never tired in his quest to re-invigorate neighborhoods through community development and expanding home ownership opportunities. Charles most recently found a platform to spread his vision as adjunct faculty within the College of Urban Planning and Public Affairs, University of Illinois, Chicago. During his time there, Charles received the Silver Circle Award, the university's highest honor for excellence in teaching. Charles leaves behind a host of affectionate friends who will continue to cherish his memory as a generous companion, an interested listener, and a lively conversationalist. Charles is survived by his mother, Mary; his sister, Martha; two sons, Griffin (11) and Spencer (8); and former wife ,Heather Foote. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 1:00 p.m .on Saturday, December 8, 2018 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 201 St. Paul's Boulevard, Norfolk, VA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Ravenswood Community Services, 4550 N. Hermitage Avenue, Chicago, IL 60640 or online at https://www.ravenswoodcommunityservices.org

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Dec. 7, 2018.
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Im so sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort help you through this tough time of mourning. Isaiah 61:1,2

J D

January 23, 2019

I attended UM with Charlie; I loved discussing urban planning with him. Last visited him in Chicago in June 2014. I will miss him. My condolences to the family. May he rest in peace.

Chris Gulock

Friend

December 18, 2018

To the family of Charlie,
I had the pleasure of meeting Charlie through my son Alan Mammoser. I met the darling boys, who were his pride and joy. Alan will miss him terribly as they had an enduring friendship for several decades.
My sincere condolences to each of you.
May he rest in peace.
God Bless you Mrs. Daas, and all of your family.
Sincerely,
Mary Mammoser

December 10, 2018

Sincerest condolences to the family. Let the warm memories you have of Charles comfort you, as well as seeing him again soon, as promised at John 6:40. May strength and peace be yours at this difficult time.

December 9, 2018

Mary-
Please know that I am thinking of you and send my love and deepest sympathy.

Mary Lewis Ash

December 8, 2018

May Charles Rest In Peace. Glad I had the opportunity to know Charles while here in Norfolk.

Pat Murray

December 8, 2018

Charles was a trombonist at Grosse Pointe South HS the first year I taught there. He played in our band for 4 years, and I remember him well. He was a fine person and a pleasure to be around. I remember him as always being jovial--which is probably what earned him the nickname of "Chuckles".

I knew Chuck was a hard worker outside of school (we remember "Sunshine Charlie") and, from what I've read about his adult life, it appears he didn't change.

It didn't surprise me to learn that Chuck maintained friendships with his fellow HS band members because he always seemed to care for others.

My wife joins me in sending our heartfelt sympathy to Chuck's family and friends.

Ralph Miller

December 8, 2018

Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss. I hope that words such those found at John 6:40 bring you comfort at this difficult time. CR

December 8, 2018

So difficult to know that the boundless energy that was Charlie, when I knew him, has been stilled. Charlie and I both worked for a NW Side Chicago nonprofit. He had friends far and wide beyond the boundaries of Chicago. In the day before cell phones and email, he kept in touch with them via phone and would ante up what it cost the organization each month. Points earned on long distance usage held redemption value - if not for him we'd never have amassed enough points for a box of Dixie Cups. I christened the umbrella we got for those points the Charles Daas Commemorative Umbrella. I seem to remember, too that in his early teens he started a unique and successful business, and because of his unbounded and ebullient personality many called him 'the mayor.'

Joan SOLDWISCH

December 7, 2018

Charlie you were a great influence on me and the planning of the Englewood Chicago community. You introduced your students to the bright side of our community. You erased fear and criticism by being on the front line for social and urban living. Thanks for always being there and thanks for being my friend.

Glen Fulton

December 7, 2018

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Memorial service

1:00 p.m.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church

201 St. Paul's Boulevard, Norfolk, IL

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