Obituary of Charles Kerfien

On April 22, 2020 devoted husband and loving father Charles “Chuck” L. Kerfien was called home by The Lord, he was at home with his family beside him. He was 74 years old. Born in Volney to Leslie F. Kerfien, Sr. and Lottie M. (Welch) Kerfien, Chuck was the ninth of ten children. Chuck graduated from Fulton High School in 1963 and began a long successful career in manufacturing. He was a journeyman machinist, qualified welder, and expert high-speed packaging equipment mechanic. Chuck worked at Nestle, Black Clawson, Miller Brewing, Stroh Brewing, and Phillip Morris before retiring in 2008. Chuck was a family man and his drive and work ethic were always focused on providing for his family. On August 23, 1975 Chuck married Darlene L. Griswold and the couple enjoyed a full 44 years of marriage. They made their home in Fulton, NY for 22 years before moving to Kannapolis, NC. Chuck was a farm boy at heart. Following his retirement the couple returned to his family farm in Volney as Oswego County was always his home. Chuck and Darlene enjoyed traveling and seeing the world together, but they were happiest hosting family gatherings and spectacular summer air show parties. They prided themselves in making their home a welcome place year-round for family friends. Chuck was the first one to lend a helping hand, pull a stranger out of the snow, share a smile with his sparkling blue eyes, and engage in conversation. He was also a surprisingly good dancer. Chuck was a racer. From 1966 to 1970 he campaigned his own late model and from 1972 until 1979 he and his brother Tom fielded the Kerfien Brothers Racing modified. They competed locally in upstate NY scoring multiple wins and competing for track titles. When the team ownership years ended Chuck continued to compete in an asphalt modified until hanging up his helmet for good in 1986. He attended races with his family and friends and avidly followed the sport for the rest of his life. Chuck is survived by his wife Darlene; his sons Ryan (Erin) of Huntersville NC and Scott of Fulton, NY; his grandson Charles S. of Huntersville, NC; his brothers Robert, Fredrick, Richard, Edward, Thomas, and his sister Donna Gilliland all of Fulton, NY; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Chuck is preceded in death by his father Leslie Sr.; mother Lottie; brothers Leslie Jr., Duane, and Floyd. Calling hours are 4 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at Brown Funeral Home, 21 Flood Drive in Fulton. Funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 309 Buffalo Street, Fulton. Face coverings and social distancing are required. Donations may be made to Speedway Children’s Charities online at www.speedwaycharities.org/bristol or mailed to Speedway Children’s Charities, 5555 Concord Parkway South, Concord, NC 28027 please designate it to the Bristol Motor Speedway in memory of Charles L. Kerfien. Condolences for the family may be left at www.brownfuneralhomefulton.com