URGENT UPDATE: The community of Duluth, MN is mourning the loss of Charles (Chuck) M. Payment, who passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026 at the age of 78. His family has expressed gratitude to Beehive and Gentiva for their support during this difficult time.
Born on February 3, 1948, in Frankfurt, MI, Chuck was raised in Empire, MI. He graduated from Glen Lake High School in 1966 before pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at Michigan Tech. While in college, he served as a Ski Patrol member and joined the ROTC. Following his graduation, Chuck served in the Army Reserve from 1972 to 1980, achieving the rank of Captain.
Chuck began his career at Great Lakes Gas Transmission in 1972, marking the start of a 39-year journey in Fuel Transmission. His personal life flourished when he met Alyce Heimsjo in 1973, and they welcomed two children, Brooke and Cory. He was an active youth hockey coach, devoting countless chilly nights to maintaining the outdoor rinks in Duluth.
For over 35 years, Chuck and Alyce passionately supported the UMD Bulldogs Men’s Hockey team as season ticket holders. In 2011, he retired and embraced his love for the outdoors, enjoying boating on Lake Superior, fishing, and hunting. He particularly cherished the time spent with his son Cory in Montana, along with adventures catching salmon on Lake Michigan and pheasants in South Dakota.
Chuck is remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for his warmth and community spirit. He is survived by his wife Alyce, son Cory, daughter Brooke Day (Aric), their children Leo and Elin Day, and his brother Leigh Payment (Linda). He was predeceased by his older brother, Lou Payment.
A celebration of life will take place on March 21, 2026, at 11 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church in Duluth, with visitation beginning at 10 AM and a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or Trinity Lutheran Church in Chuck’s honor.
“The two best times to fish is when it’s raining and when it ain’t.” – Patrick F. McManus
As the community gathers to honor Chuck Payment, his legacy of love for family, friends, and the great outdoors will endure, reminding all of the impact one person can have on a community.
