Lewisburg - Charles (Chuck) E. Confer died suddenly at home in Lewisburg on Oct. 3, 2025. He was 87 soon to be 88 on Nov. 25, 2025. Born in the old Evangelical Hospital, he was the son of Paul C. Confer and Margaret Tomlinson Confer. His wife of 45 years is Mary Lotspeich who survives.

Other survivors are sons Paul (Francine) and Geoffrey Confer, Matthew (Lida) Lawrence; grandchildren Juliette, Emmaliese, John and Christopher Confer, Josiah and Isaac Lawrence; sisters, Connie (Marylee) and Mary Jane Confer; cousin Tom (Karen) Humphrey and nephew Jeremy Weinberg.

A favorite quote of Chuck's from Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass was "Stranger, if you passing meet me and desire to speak to me, why should you not speak to me and why should I not speak to you." He lived these lines.

Chuck was a loving and devoted husband, father, father-in-law, Grandpa, brother, cousin, and uncle. He was ever present at births, birthdays, dance recitals, band and play performances, sporting events, graduations, and other significant family occasions such as the celebration of Thanksgiving at his home. In recent years, he and his sister Connie who lives in California had nearly daily telephone chats. Chuck especially enjoyed annual family vacations to Provincetown on Cape Cod.

He graduated from the Milton public schools (class of 1955), Bucknell University, Philadelphia Lutheran Seminary and University of Pittsburgh graduate school of Social Work.

Chuck had a distinguished professional life. His desire to help people began at an early age and became his calling. The practice of professional social work was a perfect vehicle for him. He worked in child welfare, specifically, direct service and administration in adoption and foster care services. Once described as a master teacher, Chuck provided training and consultation in anger management, communication and human relationship skills to corporations and social service agencies throughout the U.S., Europe and Russia. As president of the International Foster Care Organization (IFCO), he made lasting friendships with colleagues in England, the Netherlands and Germany. He authored the book "Managing Anger Successfully" and many, skills-oriented booklets for parents and adults dealing with difficult children. He wrapped up the last 20 years of his career in private practice as an out-patient therapist.

Chuck's affiliation with St. Andrews Episcopal church held significant meaning for him. It began in the late 50s, when as a Bucknell student, he played the organ. He began attending in 1979 followed eventually by membership and confirmation. He often was the first person to greet and welcome newcomers and visitors. He formed a bridge group with fellow parishioners, Paul, Byron, and Bob. They played together for many years. He perfected his persona as St. Nicholas, patron Saint of children and sailors. In recent times, Chuck enjoyed coffee/tea sessions with Troy and Peter and lunch twice a month at Ridgecrest with church family.

Chuck and Mary moved into their home in Lewisburg in 1980. Long time neighbors became treasured friends. Chuck, an Anglophile, originated an annual Boxing Day open house on Dec. 26 for neighbors and friends. An accomplished piano player, guests enjoyed his Christmas carol singalongs.

He and Mary along with next door neighbors Bruce and Carol held an annual Labor Day picnic.

Chuck was a community presence. He teased and talked with young and old on Lewisburg streets and everywhere he went. He played Santa Claus in stores at Christmas time and Father Christmas in Victorian parades. He and friend Jack formed a book club of two, usually reading books about our Founding Fathers and discussing their strengths and weaknesses. Ukelele playing sessions and chats with graduate school friend Dick in Dick's music store were pleasurable times. As a lover of classical music, Chuck enjoyed orchestral concerts at the Weis Center at Bucknell.

Chuck's life was full and well-lived.

Donations may be given to St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Lewisburg or the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank.

A funeral service will be at St. Andrews Episcopal Church at 1 p.m. on Nov. 1, 2025. A burial service will be at the Columbarium in the Lewisburg Cemetery on Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, at 1 p.m.

Arrangements were made by the John H. Shaw III Funeral Home in Lewisburg.