Charles Thomas Nolen

May 7, 1943 - April 13, 2020

Charles Thomas Nolen, age 76, was born May 7,1943 in Malvern Arkansas to the union of Sam and Ada Nolen. His parents and sister Opal L. McClendon, preceded him in death. He traveled to Michigan with his parents, received most of his primary education in the Romulus Community School district and graduated from Romulus High School in 1961. Charles was highly intelligent, hardworking, generous and determined. After his graduation, he completed the Engineering program at RETS Electronic School in Detroit. He worked at Ford Motor Company for a short time, then joined General Motors where he completed their Engineering Apprenticeship program. He received a Master's degree frm Central Michigan University, and retired from Central Michigan University, and retired from GM after more than 30 distinguished years as General Superintendent of Skill Trades. On the side, he spent many years in the heating and cooling business and continued installing furnaces and air conditioners after retirement. He did other electrical work for family and friends, and many times at little or no charge. Charles as united in marriage to Betty L. Colquitt in 1967. They were blessed with on son Charles Kenyon and one grandson, Charles Mailk. Charles loved his family unconditionally and was completely dedicated to the wellbeing. Charles loved a food fish fry and was known for sharing his passion for barbequing with family and friends, which he was proud to say he learned from his Dad. He felt enormous pride being with family and watching people enjoy his food. He also loved classic cars, owned several and participated in many classic car shows. With his son by his side, Charles peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord at Harper Hospital on April 13,2020. Charles leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of nearly 53 years, Betty, his son Charles Kenyon (Jennifer); his grandson, Charles Malik (Elijah and Chavoya); his brother, Henry Nolen; his sister Jennette Nolen; cousin, Paul Bazzelle; sister-in-law, Bertha Hargess; six nephews, Earl (Trina) Hargress, Eddie (Sandra) Colquitt, Jr., Bryon (Jennifer) Nolen, Brandon Hargress, Jaiden McClendon, and Omir Stevens; five nieces, Yvonne Hargress, Rhonda Nolen, Porticia Colquitt Hall, Kysia Fowler, and Bianca Hargress; along with many other relatives and close friends. His brothers-in-law, Eddie Colquitt, Richard Colquitt, and Jimmie Colquitt all preceded him in death. Special thanks for his devoted brother Henry, close friends, Ronald (Cheryle) Buckley, Calvin West, Yada Phillips and Rita Nelson Brown as well as his neighbor, James Bell who was steadfast in showing his love and support throughout Charles' yearlong illness. Although our hearts are heavy, we celebrate Charles' life, and remember his kindness, thoughtfulness, generosity, and love of family, and we will find comfort that is resting in heaven watching over us.