Charles Opitz

Charles (“Charlie”) Joseph Opitz, 1950-2021, 71 years of age, passed away late in the night of July 3rd at his home in Springfield, Missouri. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Natalie Opitz (née Bierman), his sons Marcus Opitz, Nicholas Opitz, and Matthew Opitz, his daughter-in-law Ashley Ihrig-Opitz, his daughter Tara Opitz Taylor, his son-in-law Juan Pablo Garcia Taylor, and granddaughters Olivia Taylor and Francine Taylor.

Charlie was born on March 1st, 1950 in Coral Gables, Florida, to parents Francisco Opitz and Josephine Opitz (née Achinelli), who preceded him in death. Charlie grew up in Miami, Florida among seven beloved siblings. Two sisters, Angela and Joanne Opitz, preceded him in death. Charlie is survived by siblings Frances Opitz, Anthony Opitz, Constance Donde (née Opitz), Teresa Opitz, and Antonia Opitz.

A true renaissance man, Charlie was always willing to try his hand at any endeavor and made friends wherever he went. He began working on the roof alongside his father from a young age, but he would go on to have many more adventures before he would make roofing his career. From 1968 to 1971, Charlie was stationed in South Korea and West Germany while serving in the U.S. Army. After being honorably discharged from the service, Charlie lived in New York City and Kansas City before settling down in Springfield, Missouri. There, he discovered a love of the rural, natural beauty of the Ozarks. Under the G.I. Bill, Charlie studied theater and philosophy at Southwest Missouri State University (now Missouri State University). One day Charlie decided to go back to roofing, saying to himself, “If I can even be half the roofer of my strong-like-bull father, I'll be damn good at it.” That decisive attitude is what led Charlie to eventually co-own Quality Roofing Company with Warren Allie for 18 years and to later work as Superintendent for Kirberg Roofing Company in Springfield for 16 years.

Charlie's unforgettable personality and spontaneity won over the love of his life, Natalie, whom he married in 1979. Together they built not only a home, but a family that meant the world to them. His family will always remember Charlie as a devoted father and husband. Those memories together are so numerous, one could not recount them all here. Charlie drew his last breath at home with his family by his side. The legacy he left will not be forgotten by anyone who knew him.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, July 10th at 4pm at the Stracke Family Farm at 4115 North Farm Road 189, Springfield, Missouri 65803 (from Springfield, head north on Highway 65 just past I-44, turn east on Bluegrass Road, then turn south on Farm Road 189). Casual attire is encouraged. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in honor of Charlie Opitz.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home in Springfield, Missouri.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.