If you knew Charles Lewandowski, it's likely that if someone asked you to name the most colorful person you knew, he would immediately come to mind. He went by many names - Charles, Charlie, Chuck, Uncle Charles, Uncle Chuckles, and even Leroy Tswanaerkiewicz - but everyone knew him as a big guy with a big heart. He was a generous friend to many, always willing to help out, to listen, to offer a joke or a very firm handshake. A loyal worker who put his all into everything he did. There are many things he'll be remembered for, but the following stand out: His love of cars. He always had a polished ride, no matter the brand name or the year. It's impossible to list the collection he amassed and sold over the years, but it included some impressive classics. He enjoyed spending time with his 'car friends' talking makes, models, engines, and speed. He loved to introduce family and friends to his car friends and their collection of stellar vehicles as well, sometimes resulting in a memorable rocket ride down Lake Drive. He always made sure his beloved wife, Judy, had a reliable vehicle and something that she liked to drive. Even in his last days he was making sure her car was taken care of by ordering new tires! His love of music. For years, he and his brother, Mel, played in their band(s) (The Seville's and The Exceptions, to name two) at various night clubs in the area. He filled in with other musicians and bands as well and played numerous gigs wherever a good organ and piano player was needed. Family and friends will remember energetic concerts on his Hammond B-3 or whatever piano resided in his living room at the time. He loved talking music with those who understood, and he'd share records, CDs and recordings with anyone who expressed an interest. He was a fantastic musician and we loved hearing him play. It was heartbreaking the last few years when he couldn't play anymore. It was difficult to see that musical flame turned down, but we treasure the memories of the Boogie Woogie music he made as his fingers flew across the keyboard. There will always be songs that we hear which will immediately remind us of him. His love of family. He treasured his father Casey, brother Mel and sister MaryAnn, all of whom preceded him to the arms of Our Lord. He was a dedicated husband to his wife, Judy. He couldn't praise her beautiful gardens enough, and he was delighted to take her many places when he was still traveling. She was the light and love of his life, even if he found saying those words difficult. Not a man of sentimental language, he'd demonstrate his love in so many other ways. Crushing hugs and bone-rattling smacks on the back being one of them and unusual gifts or letters another. He loved his nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews, providing them with countless memories of his generosity and silliness. They all have a permanent collection of memorabilia from his years at Metro Milwaukee Auto Auction ... and a lifelong appreciation for address labels and packing tape. Plus a lifetime supply of notepads. All the memories of the meals he would drop off (and sometimes share) at his sister's house are precious family lore: pizza, fried chicken, raw beef and onions … not to mention the cases of soda and gallons of olives. We'll never forget his generosity. His love of community. He enjoyed living in South Milwaukee for most of his life, in his dream house on Lake Drive. No doubt there are a lot of people who will remember his tire store and his furniture store. Especially the latter which was known for its humorous signage and advertising. He always wanted the best for the community and did his part to shop local and support local industries, even once running for local office, so he could make a difference. His unique sense of humor. It's difficult to describe his sense of humor, but he certainly had one! Sometimes, it was punny. Other times, rather off-color. Still other times, downright hilarious. He was quick-witted with a comeback and never short on jokes. Very rarely politically correct, and always unique to him. My dear Uncle Charlie … we'll miss you beyond words. You touched so many people in so many ways. There are countless treasured memories and now, a big, gaping hole. Losing you so closely to your sister, our mother, makes this all the more painful of a loss. Yet, we know you've gone off to be with Jesus. You'll meet us there. No doubt with a crushing hug and a "It's good to see ya, Kid." When we think of you in our minds, asking you how you're doing, the response we'll undoubtedly conjure up is "Sofa … so good." We love ya, Unk. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on THURSDAY, August 27, 2020 at 11:00 A.M at NATIVITY OF THE LORD PARISH 4611 South Kirkwood Avenue. Cudahy. Inurnment and Military Honors to follow at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery. (Please meet directly at church at 10:45 A.M.)