Charles Joseph Heit passed away February 17, 2021, from natural causes. He was born to Ralph and Irene Heit on December 10, 1950, in Durand, Wisconsin. He grew up on a dairy farm. Charlie graduated from high school in 1968.
After graduating, Charlie attended UW Madison for one year before being drafted into the Army. Charlie served his country from 1970-1971 as a combat medic in Vietnam. Being a conscientious objector, Charlie went into enemy fire without a weapon to save wounded soldiers. He received the Bronze Star and a second commendation for his bravery. Many years later, Charlie proudly served in the Montana Army National Guard and Montana Air National Guard in public affairs. He retired as a Master Sergeant. After working as a videographer at Malmstrom Air Force Base Charlie retired in 2010.
After returning from Vietnam, Charlie started his Radio/TV career by attending Brown Institute for Broadcasting in Minneapolis, MN. Charlie's radio career took him to Hardin, MT and New Ulm, MN before settling in Great Falls in 1982. He was hired at KEIN and eventually became part of the popular morning team Hutch and Heit. Some years later Dave Wilson hired Charlie for 560 KMON. Eventually Charlie moved to KFBB and became their weatherman. In 2008 Charlie was awarded TV Weatherman of the Year from the Montana Broadcasters Association.
Charlie married Cheri Sem in 1975. They were blessed with their son Adam. They later divorced. Charlie met his soulmate Missy Elmore while they were both working at KEIN. They were married July 29,1988.
Charlie liked all kinds of music, but his heart was in country music. He had an encyclopedic knowledge of it. Charlie loved to garden and work in his yard. He fed many a woodland creature. His grandson said nature lives in our yard. Charlie enjoyed antiques, history, very plain food, and a glass of scotch.
To read the complete obituary and share condolences, visit the Schnider Funeral Home website.
